CREATIV SPORTS PODCAST

S3 Ep23: Take Initiative with Jalen Jones • Vegas Golden Knights

Jalen Jones, Senior Motion Designer with the Vegas Golden Knights, shares his journey into sports and motion design. Initially picking up Photoshop to be like his brother, Jones found his passion for the art and is now pushing the bound of design and motion. He stresses the importance of pitching content that means something to you. 

S3 Ep22: Magic Of Details with Mio Linzie • Freelance Illustrator

Mio Linzie loves to explore stories and express them through her illustrations. As a queer, autistic artist, she finds that a pen in her hand clears her mind of the noise, and lets her imagination run free. Follow on social: TW @flyerswitch IG @esmioraa

S3 Ep21: Challenge Your Storytelling with Jasmine Blevins • LA Chargers

Regardless of your medium, we are are storytellers. From long-form to short-form, and producing content in the pros and college, Jasmine has a unique perspective on how to develop the storytelling structures to strike the right notes at the right time for the audience.

S3 Ep20: Managing Expectations with Karina, Darrias, and Justin

Managing expectations and collaboration is challenging. As we wrap up mental health month, we dive into a conversation about work, life, and the pursuit of happiness.

S3 Ep19: Managing Energy with Donny Brock • Seattle Seahawks

Donny is the Design Manager with the Seattle Seahawks. She got into sports because she applied for an internship she never expected to get. Bringing her fashion interests to her work, this conversation covers everything from creating the work to saving your time and energy for that which is meant for you!

S3 Ep18: International Design with Dariusz Ejkiewicz • Poland Freelancer

We’re going international this week to chat with Dariusz, a designer from Poland. Growing up as a fan of the old school design of the Charlotte Hornets logo, he got his start designing wallpapers in the early 2000’s and built a platform that grew to over a million impressions. He now freelances with clients around the world. 

S3 Ep17: Rare Heir with Derek Ochoa • Texas Football

It's rare someone stays at their first job out of college. Derek Ochoa is the Creative Director for Texas Football and has seen the college landscape make some major transitions over the past decade plus with Texas. There have also been new coaches that have come and gone in his time. What he found is the right fit for him.  We explore his journey from the athletic department to Football focused work, what his primary day-to-day role is as a leader of Football creatives, and what you should...

S3 Ep16: Freelancing with Karina, Darrias and Justin

There are many challenges when it comes to freelancing, whether you're breaking out full-time on your own, or do it while holding down a full-time gig. What do you need to know, and how do others do it? That's what we're diving into today! We are sharing what we do, and this convo should not be taken as legal advice.

S3 Ep15: Shoot Everything with Jhalen Wingate • South Carolina

Jhalen Wingate, content creator for the reigning National Champion South Carolina Women's Basketball team, has seen what it takes to be at the top of your game. He shares stories about his journey, helping his family as the oldest of 7 kids, finding his way through the pandemic, and coach Staley's leadership. Follow on social: @jhalenwingate

S3 Ep14: Characterizing Your Brand • Greg Walter

Greg Walter the owner and creative director of 2Tall Animation. His job is to pump up fans, stoke community pride, and build tribe for clients like Puma, Chiefs, Cavs, Amazon, ESPN, and dozens of other sports and lifestyle brands.  Before that, he used to write and produce original educational and scripted shows for kids.  We dive into how 2Tall went from Sesame Street to Sports, and what it takes to turn around character driven content quickly! Follow on social: @2TallAnimation

S3 Ep13: Brand Building Business with Kristin Territo Banks • KTDC

Kristin Territo is the owner of KTDC, an award winning company that creates content for digital signage at arenas and content days throughout the world. Building off her background with the Miami Heat, we talk about career progression, building and leading a team, burn out, and starting a business right before the pandemic.

S3 Ep12: Door To Door Social with Zack Peggins • Seattle Kraken

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be one of the first team employees for an expansion team? For Zack, his path started in one direction before being laid off.  When you begin your journey in the sports industry, all you're looking for is an opportunity. It's funny how things work out.  As one of the first employees for the Seattle Kraken, Zack details his journey from going door-to-door to running social for the NHL's most recent expansion team. 

S3 Ep11: Reading The Room with Angela Denogean • Carolina Panthers

Angela Denogean got her start in the sports industry as an intern and LCC contributor. She credits her background in storytelling that she learned in her early years as the driving force behind decisions she makes as a social media manager. Her path has ups and downs from being laid off with AAF to applying for a job and not hearing back for a while, but ultimately landing the opportunity. Resilience and persistence are necessary.

S3 Ep10: Social Gymnastics with Maleah Pearson • Minnesota Vikings

Maleah Pearson was all-in on gymnastics until she needed to medically retire. She found her voice through media and being the team's voice on social. With a balance of content capabilities and social strategy, she has brought the two skills together as she brings the Vikings off-field content to life. 

S3 Ep9: Post Your Work with Stephanie Lopez • Auburn

Pulling back the curtain on the role of Football creative. Our guest this week is Stephanie Lopez. She got her start as a student at Georgia, and stayed in the SEC as she took a role with Auburn Football. How did she get that role? Listen to find out!

S3 Ep8: Seeing Is Believing with Dee Seymore • Big East Conference

As the Director of Digital Media and Social Content for the Big East, Dee Seymore breaks down her approach from a conference perspective. From music to highlighting her path and how she got to where she is today, Dee found power in Olympic sports to help her hone her craft.

S3 Ep7: Thinking Outside The Box with Lakia Bailey • Kentucky

Lakia Bailey played college ball before making her way to becoming a Creative Director at Kentucky. With a communications background, she gained insight into how the athletic operations worked as she wore many hats early on her journey. She has a unique blend of pushing creative forward while maintaining a pragmatic perspective of time and place.

S3 Ep6: Organized Chaos with Kadeem Huggins • Tulane

S3 Ep5: Design the WHY with RV Oliver III• Las Vegas Aces

From MiLB to college and pros, RV has seen all different types of content and programs. As the reigning two-time WNBA champion Aces Graphic Designer, we chat about the differences between the stops, overcoming imposter syndrome, and understanding why people are the driving force behind why design is important.

S3 Ep4: The FUNdamentals with Alexis Pitchford • Freelance NCAA + NFL LCC

Alexis Pitchford is a freelance videographer with perspective as a D1 athlete. Traveling the country to personify and highlight women's Basketball, we talk travel, gear, shoot preproduction, and why it's important for fans to get to know the person and not just the athlete.

S3 Ep3: Do It Scared with Andy Torres • Freelance 3D Motion Designer

From the beaker lab to the render lab, we chat with Andy about all things 3D and his path from boredom during the pandemic to breaking out as a freelancer.  Andy's work is unique and he's made a name for himself across the industry for his handheld FPV drone camera work that stands on it's own or integrates into an epic edit.  Connect with Andy on social: andytorres_a

S3 Ep2: Building Your Personal Brand Without the Trends with Rob Villanueva • Players' Tribune

He is the Senior Manager, Athlete Relations and Marketing at The Players' Tribune and an architect on crafting personal brands. Although he got his start in tech, he soon shifted into branding and marketing after his brother Charlie was drafted into the NBA. He has found his own lane in the sports world, helping tell the stories of some of the top athletes around the world.  Give him a follow:  X @creativebyrob IG @creativebyrob LI Rob Villanueva

S3 Ep1: We're Back • Updates + Industry Talk

Back for Season 3 with some news + updates! This episode is brought to you by BallerFX, your source for sports motion content + tutorials. Visit https://www.youtube.com/@ballerfx to get started on your motion journey today!

S2 Ep33: Creative Empathy with Brittany Alvarado • San Diego Wave

She is the video & Creative manager for the San Diego Wave, and previously spent time getting Charlotte FC up and running. She is a cancer survivor going on 9 years, and has been a reporter, writer, and video producer as she bounced around the country making her dreams a reality. Being authentically herself is her policy for gaining trust and access. Soccer is a big part of her life, but more importantly, what stokes her fire is the opportunity to humanize athletes by capturing their storie...

S2 Ep32: Prioritize Being Your Best Self with Brad Friedman • STN Digital

Brad Friedman is a social media lead at STN Digital. With everything that goes into managing social in sports, we talk about the value of rest, how to keep your team fresh, and why it matters that your team can bring their best selves to work each and every day. 

S2 Ep31: Building the Plane as You Fly It with Meaghan Frazier • University of Arkansas

When time isn't on your side, you have to Build the Plane as You Fly It. That's what Meaghan Frazier and her team do as they work to build an amazing content team. And with her background and experience, they're on the right track to do so. 

S2 Ep30: Write The Highlight with Oliver Hunt • WSE & Fansided

This week, we are joined by Oliver Hunt, a writer for Women’s sports exchange and Fansided. Oliver’s path began with theater, and learning about lighting, which is what he does as a full-time gig. However, their passion has led to moonlighting and shining a light on the NWSL. Follow on social: linktr.ee/oliverrhunt

S2 Ep29: Leading The Digital Charge with Jason Lavine • LA Chargers

Jason Lavine is the VP of content and production for the Chargers. From Schedule Release, to Draft Hype, and selling content. We dive deep into understanding how they have built their voice, and how they make decisions when it comes to creating sellable content for their audience. 

S2 Ep28: Generation Influence with Akshay Ram• Adobe

In a world where "Influence" is at the forefront for creatives, Akshay Ram is no stranger to finding his place with it. Akshay shares his journey to becoming a product manager for Adobe and how he's using that same platform to help other creatives make life easier for themselves. 

S2 Ep27: Going Platinum with Jared Kleinstein • Gondola

Jared Kleinstein of Fresh Tape + Gondola is our guest today. From meme's to Vine's and analytics tracking, Jared has failed many times while creating valuable products for social media. There are stories, tangents, and deep conversation about work, life, and the pursuit of happyness!

S2 Ep26: Balancing Culture, Family and Mental Health with Jesse Wu • University of Southern California

Jesse Wu is the Creative Director for the University of Southern California. Growing up, Jesse didn't see much Asian influence in Pro American Sports, but didn't let that detour him from his aspirations of working in sports. As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islanders Month, as well as Mental Health Awareness Month, he describes his experiences with both. 

S2 Ep25: Running Your Career with Karen Ramming • TrackTown USA

Karen Ramming is the Sr. Director of Digital Innovation and Communications with TrackTown USA and although she ran track in high school, she never expected to get into the sports field after college career. From bartending to PR, she has a wide ranging background that has all contributed to her success and foreshadowed her next career move. She has been intentional with her decisions to take on jobs to evolve her career. We talk about content, cocktails, social, career choices, and mental ...

S2 Ep24: Being Resourceful on a Budget with Gary Paczesny • North Carolina

Gary Paczesny grew up in South Bend, and got his start early in the live streaming era. He now oversees Creative + Communications at North Carolina. We pick his brain about what it takes to get hired, and why there are such a wide range of salaries across college athletics.

S2 Ep23: How to win in the business of content with Alex Herko • Houston Astros

Alex Herko is the Director of Content for the reigning world series champs and a former colleague of mine from our time with the Boston Celtics. Alex’s drive, and passion for the intersection of content + business has helped him thrive in his role. We’ll be diving into how to make those connections and work on getting the green light for production! Follow Alex on social: IG: herko_alexander

S2 Ep22: It's Not Where You Start with Kiaira Cooper • Cal Women's Basketball

We've all heard the old saying "It's not how you start, but how you finish." Well, just imagine going from a collegiate basketball player, to assistant coach/SID to full time SID, to content creator. It's not how you get there, but that you actually reach the destination. 

S2 Ep21: Betting On Creative with Avery Owens • FanDuel

What is it like to work on the Marketing side of a product like FanDuel? Avery shares what a typical day is like in the fast-paced world of fantasty games. He also talks about how he spends his time to clear his head and focus on something other than sports design. Give him a follow:  Behance: https://www.behance.net/AveryO?locale=en_US Twitter: aveowens_

S2 Ep20: Networking Across & Lifting as You Climb with Lauren Harper • Detroit Lions

Lauren makes it her mission to hold space for others. As one of 32 Social Media Managers in the NFL, she wants to ensure that she's leaving the door open for more women to obtain those roles after her in the future. An English major by trade, and with over 10 years of experience in pro sports, Harper is constantly reminded the value of networking across with your peers and not just upwards. 

S2 Ep19: Own Your Space with Sarina Soriano • SF 49ers

Sarina is a tenacious self-starter and driven individual. The diverse opportunities that she has experienced have shaped her into a coachable team player who enjoys taking on new challenges. She produces content in multiple languages, and makes her family proud as she represents her ancestors on the sideline for her hometown team. Site: sarinasoriano.com

S2 Ep18: Nothing Is Wasted with Natalie Hendricks • ATL Hawks

Natalie's journey to content started with many other paths and explorations before she landed an opportunity with the American Junior Golf Association. From teaching a college class she had to learn on the fly, to exploring interests in sports science, she followed her curiosity. She adapted and learned how all of those experiences shaped who she is, and what she does today as the Director of Content with the Atlanta Hawks.

S2 Ep17: Producing In A Major Way with Tessa Andrade • PGA Tour

Tessa has seen many sides of the sports industry. She got her start with the Spurs, developed connections to expand her network, and built relationships with many teams in Texas.  She has worked behind the camera, in front of the camera, and freelanced, where she has learned the value of being a multi-disciplined content creator. She now puts all of that knowledge together to coordinate content needs as a producer with the PGA Tour. Connect with Tessa: Site: https://www.tessaandrade.com/ ...

S2 Ep16: Debunking The Expectations Of Others with Brian Gray • Kansas Basketball

Have you ever had someone stop you because they didn't believe you were? At 6'5", Brian Gray looks like an athlete, but has always been interested in the art of design. As part of the Kansas Jayhawks Basketball program, Brian talks about challenges he's faced and not taking on the burden of others expectations by believing in who you are and what you're capable of. Social: IG: @briangray.design TW: briangraydesign

S2 Ep15: S2 EP 15: Taking the Road Less Travelled with Zhanee Anderson - Austin FC

Zhanee Anderson, Graphic Designer for Austin FC, found herself taking an unconventional path during the pandemic as she was graduating college. With limited experience, and limitations on being around athletes to get the job done, she maximized her opportunity by gaining a lot of experience, in a short amount of time. Although some may not recommend job hopping in a short period of time, it proved to be very beneficial for Anderson.  Follow Zhanee on Twitter @zhaneeanderson and Instagram _Z...

S2 Ep14: Producer Thriving In Waiting Season with Candace Cooper • Under Armour

Candace Cooper, Lead Producer for Under Armour is no stranger to waiting her turn or making the most of every opportunity. Once a student athlete with Olympic aspirations, Cooper found herself in the sports creative world after retiring from swimming. Throughout her career, no matter how life forced her to pivot, she was prepared for the moment.  Her journey has not been a straight path but she's always prepared to thrive in her waiting season. Follow: @CandaceDCooper

S2 Ep13: Humble Beginnings with Corey Easley • WME

One may think that a meteoric rise to success would send humbleness out the window. Not for Corey Easley. He has found a way to remain humble, hungry and constantly eager to learn every step of the way. Now a video producer for William Morris Endeavor, SPorts Division, working with some of the top athletes around the world, Corey still finds a way to humble himself and is never afraid to hone his craft and learn from his peers. Follow on social TW & IG: @Imcoreaz

S2 Ep12: Sports In Sync with Matthew Gutknecht • APM Music

Music licensing has been a hot button topic around the industry for a while now, so it's time we brought in some help to unpack music usage and licensing. MG from APM Music is our guest today. From needle drop to open videos, performance licensing to social media usage, we cover the bases to help you navigate music for your content needs.   *This is an educational conversation and not legal advice. If you have questions, consult your legal team.

S2 Ep11: Highlight Express with Tom Roche • CBS Sports

Tom Roche has sat in many chairs over 25 years at ESPN. He’s now the coordinating producer with CBS Sports. As many things have changed, we talk about what has remained constant. From how to get your foot in the door, to building a network, and making the most of your own highlight reel! Site: https://stormers15media.com/ Socials: TW: @Stormers_15 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-roche-producer/

S2 Ep10: Own Your Baseline with Jaylynn Nash • Freelance Photographer

Jaylynn has over ten years of experience being a graphic designer, photographer, social media manager, content creator, web designer, and marketer. She has designed for startups, sales, corporate, sports, healthcare (including Duke), and family companies. Along with she has almost a decade of extensive experience in covering professional sports, minor/junior leagues, college level, and youth. She has covered NBA, WNBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, MLS, Red Bull events, NASCAR, INDYCAR, NCAA (including loc...

S2 Ep9: Married To The Game with Jen & Lijah Galas • Georgia

Work-Life balance. It’s a term we’ve all heard. But, what happens when you’re married and work in the same Athletic Department? Today, we have Jen + Lijah Galas of the Georgia Bulldogs. Jen  is the Assistant Athletic Director of Social Media & Digital Strategy. Lijah is the Director of Creative Services & Recruiting. Although their work lives don’t always overlap, their home life does, and it’s become an incubator of sorts for bringing fresh ideas to their work lives.

S2 Ep8: How Creative Fits Into The Fan Journey with Tyson Hutchins • BYU

From former college athlete to leading the creative department at BYU, today’s guest Tyson Hutchins has a strong voice in the digital space in college athletics. We talk about the WHY. Why is this content being created. Why do we need to change something. Why are we creating the teams social content in a certain voice. Creating with intention all comes back to strategy.  TW: @tysonhutchins_

S2 Ep7: The Art of Being Realistic with Dominique Nwoko • VaynerSports

Dominique Nwoko started working with the University of Georgia as a student because she was looking for something to do. You will not find her watching sports outside of work, but that has allowed her to bring a fresh voice and an outside perspective to her sports work. She designed Jalen Ramsey’s signature chain, and is currently working in the agency world with VaynerSports.  Site: https://dnwoko.myportfolio.com/ TW: dominique_nwoko IG: dominiquenwoko