Explore every episode of the podcast Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee

Episode 153 | David welcomes Tim back from the Final Four circuit, and the hosts waste no time diving into a packed slate of basketball storylines, industry deals, and emerging regulatory issues. The conversation blends courtside insight with boardroom analysis before shifting to a compelling discussion with a leading golf executive ahead of one of the sport’s biggest stages.

In this episode:

🏀 A look back at the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Final Four, including:
• The high-profile spat between coaching legends Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley
• The transfer portal ripple effects impacting the Tennessee Lady Volunteers
• Tim’s firsthand experience at the Naismith Awards in Phoenix and Indianapolis

💼 A major move in the marketing world as 160over90 is acquired by Publicis Groupe for $500M — and what it signals about the continued rise of sports and experiential marketing

📊 Ongoing efforts by states to regulate prediction markets like Kalshi, raising new questions at the intersection of sports, gaming, and financial products

⛳ A featured conversation with Omer Kem, EVP of Sales at GSE Worldwide, discussing:
• The business landscape heading into The Masters
• Expanding NIL opportunities for collegiate golfers
• His unique journey from professional cycling to sports sales leadership
• Key trends shaping golf marketing, sponsorship, and athlete representation

From Final Four friction to fairway strategy, this episode delivers a comprehensive look at the forces shaping today’s sports business ecosystem.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 152 | David and Tim are back after a week off—and they waste no time getting into it. This is a quick-hitting episode with a courtside perspective—literally—as Tim checks in from the NCAA Women’s Final Four in Phoenix.

With basketball energy in the air, the hosts move rapidly through several timely sports business stories, offering sharp analysis on labor dynamics, emerging sponsorship risks, and the evolving role of technology in officiating.

In this episode:

🏀 WNBA — A bit of a victory lap for DP & McGhee, correctly predicting no games would be lost to a work stoppage. They break down the league’s new financial reality, including significantly increased player salaries and what it signals for long-term growth.

⚾ Major League Baseball — The addition of Polymarket as a sponsor raises eyebrows, with questions around potential regulatory and reputational risks. Plus, an early look at the Automatic Balls and Strikes (ABS) system—and whether implementation is already exposing inconsistencies among umpires.

⛳ Tiger Woods — A thoughtful conversation as both hosts express hope that the golf icon seeks support for personal challenges, and why greater openness could have a meaningful ripple effect across sports and society.

🎙️ Live from Phoenix, with the backdrop of the Women’s Final Four, DP & McGhee connect performance, policy, and personality in a fast-paced tour across the sports business landscape.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business. Wait, What?

Episode 151 | David and Tim deliver another wide-ranging episode, mixing timely headlines from across the sports landscape with an insightful conversation featuring one of volleyball’s rising professional stars.

From international baseball drama to labor tensions and March Madness debates, the hosts set the table before diving into a compelling athlete journey and a thoughtful perspective on the evolving college sports model.

In this episode:

⚾ The World Baseball Classic builds toward a dramatic finish, with Team USA vs. Venezuela set for a championship showdown.

🏀 Ongoing WNBA labor negotiations — tensions rising as players push for a transformational deal, with the possibility of a work stoppage looming.

🏀 It wouldn’t be March without madness:
• Experimental LED courts malfunctioning and creating controversy
• Bruce Pearl stirring the pot with his latest takes
• DP & McGhee weigh in — ultimately backing the NCAA Men’s Selection Committee for getting the bracket right

🏐 A featured conversation with Brooke Nuneviller, star outside hitter for the Omaha Supernovas and one of the sport’s top emerging pros:
• Her journey from picking up volleyball at age 6 to becoming a standout at Oregon
• Playing professionally overseas in Turkey before landing in Omaha
• A candid, insightful perspective on NIL and the current state of college athletics

From global tournaments to grassroots beginnings, this episode highlights both the business and personal pathways shaping today’s sports world.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Wait, What?

Episode 150 | March Madness is around the corner, and DP & McGhee tee up the conversation with a wide-ranging look at some of the biggest stories across the sports industry before welcoming one of the key architects behind college basketball’s marquee event.

From labor negotiations and international baseball surprises to league scandals and golf’s evolving leadership, the hosts cover plenty of ground before sitting down for an insider’s perspective on the NCAA Tournament.

In this episode:

🏀 A featured conversation with Dan Gavitt, discussing:
• Preparations for the upcoming NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament.
• What it would take to expand the tournament beyond 68 teams.
• His career path from college coaching to sports marketing, athletic administration, and ultimately a leadership role at the NCAA.

🏀 WNBA labor negotiations — the latest developments and what they could mean for the league’s economic trajectory.

⚾ A surprising upset in the World Baseball Classic, as Team USA suffers a shocking loss to Italy.

⚽ A major scandal hits Major League Soccer, where a gambling investigation results in two players receiving lifetime bans.

⛳ Structural changes on the horizon at the PGA Tour, as new CEO Brian Rollap explores significant reforms for the sport.

From the boardrooms of professional leagues to the bracket-building of March Madness, this episode examines the pressures, politics, and planning that shape the modern sports business landscape.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 149 | This week, David and Tim move from racetracks to boardrooms to the hardwood, blending racing history, global football politics, media consolidation, and basketball storytelling into one compelling episode. After breaking down several major sports business headlines, the hosts welcome an award-winning filmmaker whose latest project spotlights one of the most influential disruptors in professional sports history.

In this episode:

🏁 Tyler Reddick and 23XI Racing open the NASCAR season with three consecutive wins — and what that early dominance signals about competitive balance at the Cup level.

🥇 USA Hockey’s gold medalists from the men’s and women’s teams share a celebratory moment on 𝘚𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦, a crossover that underscores hockey’s growing cultural momentum.

⚽ FIFA faces fresh headwinds, including local resistance in Foxborough, Mass. as city officials weigh spending ahead of upcoming World Cup matches, a reminder that global events still hinge on local politics.

📺 The proposed merger between Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery and what consolidation at that scale could mean for sports rights, distribution strategy, and programming leverage.

🎬 A featured conversation with Kenan Kamwana Holley, two-time Emmy Award–winning director and executive producer, discussing:
• His formative experience at NFL Films under Steve Sabol.
• Career stops at ESPN and lessons in premium sports storytelling.
• His latest project, Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association, and what made the ABA such a cultural and commercial disruptor.
• What he hopes viewers take away about innovation, personality-driven marketing, and the league’s lasting imprint on today’s NBA.

From racetracks to boardrooms to the hardwood, this episode explores how visionaries — on the field and behind the camera — shape the evolution of sports culture.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 148 | David and Tim pack this episode with global perspective and motorsports insight, moving seamlessly from Olympic analysis to an inside look at one of NASCAR’s most closely watched teams. With sharp commentary and candid conversation, the hosts explore how leadership, performance, and business pressures are shaping the modern sports landscape.

In this episode:

🏔️ A comprehensive breakdown of the Milano-Cortina Winter Games, including:
 • The continued politicization of the Olympics and its ripple effects across the movement.
 • Strong U.S. TV ratings and what they reveal about audience engagement.
 • The standout success of the U.S. men’s and women’s hockey teams.
 • Evaluating Kirsty Coventry’s leadership at the IOC.
 • Discussion of Casey Wasserman’s challenging tenure as chairman of the LA28 Games.

🏁 A featured return appearance by Steve "Jake" Lauletta, President of 23XI Racing (“Jake”), covering:
 • The team’s early season success and competitive trajectory.
 • Michael Jordan’s deep commitment to NASCAR and its cultural impact on the organization.
 • The industry landscape following the settlement involving 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR.
 • Broader insights into team strategy, economics, and the sport’s future.

From Olympic power dynamics to NASCAR performance metrics, this episode examines how sports organizations navigate visibility, volatility, and victory.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Wait, What?

Episode 147 | This week on Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP and McGhee, David and Tim sprint through a packed slate of ratings stories, league dynamics, and leadership shakeups before sitting down with one of the most fascinating executives in modern sports.

From the Super Bowl to the Olympics to Daytona, this episode is a deep dive into how performance, presentation, and leadership intersect across the sports landscape.

In this episode:

📊 A ratings tour across the sports calendar — from the Super Bowl to NBA All-Star Weekend — and what the numbers actually signal.

🥇 Olympics viewership surges compared to four years ago, plus: • A Ukrainian slider forced to withdraw after refusing to change helmets. • The growing role of drone technology across the Games.

🏀 NBA All-Star Weekend — ratings and competitiveness both spike; Tim argues Saturday night needs a serious redesign.

🏁 The Daytona 500 — unpacking Michael Jordan capturing a major title outside basketball and what it means for his NASCAR presence.

🏈 Super Bowl reality check — DP & McGhee miss their projections, but the NFL celebrates 124.9M viewers.

⚾ Leadership turbulence at the MLBPA, and why internal stability matters at a critical moment for the game.

🎙️ A featured conversation with Doug Logan, reflecting on a career spanning six decades, including: • Bronze Star recipient and an improbable start as a New York City cab driver • The first commissioner of Major League Soccer • CEO of USA Track & Field • Leadership lessons from a lifetime at the highest levels of sport.

A wide-ranging episode connecting ratings, reputation, and resilience, all through the lens of service and leadership.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 146 | In this episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, David and Tim break down the intersection of spectacle, culture, and leadership across the biggest stages in sports.

From Super Bowl creative misses to Olympic geopolitics to Netflix’s transformational impact on Formula 1, this one lives squarely at the crossroads of storytelling and strategy.

In this episode:

🏈 A candid review of this year's Super Bowl commercials — and why DP & McGhee felt most of them missed the mark.

🎤 Reaction to Bad Bunny’s performance and what it signals culturally and commercially.

📺 The rise of the “alternative halftime show” — and what audience fragmentation means for brands.

🏔️ Politics entering Milano-Cortina, as U.S. athletes find themselves in complicated spotlight moments.

⚖️ Michael Bay vs. Cadillac F1 — unpacking the lawsuit and the broader implications for filmmakers, brands, and creative control.

🎬 A wide-ranging conversation with Piers Sanderson, producer/director of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, covering:• His unconventional path through music, nightlife, and film• Why Drive to Survive became a global breakout and reshaped F1’s footprint• Practical advice for aspiring filmmakers navigating a competitive industry

From Super Bowl spectacle to Netflix storytelling, this episode explores how narrative, leadership, and cultural timing shape modern sports business — on and off the screen.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Wait, What?

Episode 145 | DP & McGhee are back with an episode that spans sports culture, public policy, fandom, and forecasting, before welcoming one of the pioneers of the modern collectibles business, Brandon Steiner. From Olympic buzz and hockey’s cultural moment to football controversies and bold presidential ambitions, the hosts set the table for a conversation about longevity, authenticity, and staying connected to the fans who ultimately power the industry.

🎭 USA Luge Goes Mainstream — The team gets the Saturday Night Live treatment as it ramps up for the upcoming Winter Olympic Games.

🏒 Hockey Finds New Fans — Heated Rivalry breaks into the cultural conversation, drawing fresh audiences to the sport.

🏈 Hall of Fame Outrage — Even Tim, a lifelong Jets fan, calls the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s snubbing of Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft a travesty.

🚫 No Prediction Markets on the Big Stage — The NFL bans prediction-market advertising during the Super Bowl, despite the category’s rapid growth.

🏎️ Racing Through the Capital? — David reacts to the President’s attempt to will an IndyCar race through the streets of Washington, DC—proof that some decrees are easier than others.

✍️ Guest: Brandon Steiner — The legendary memorabilia entrepreneur reflects on more than 40 years in autographed collectibles, shares his keys to success, and explains why remaining a true fan of the athletes he’s worked with has been central to his career.

🔮 Super Bowl Predictions — DP & McGhee close the episode by continuing their annual tradition, forecasting both the final score and total viewership for the Super Bowl.

A wide-ranging conversation that captures the business—and the heart—of sports.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 144 | DP & McGhee are back with another wide-ranging episode that blends big-picture sports business trends with personal perspective and Olympic-level insight. From blockbuster NFL storylines to landmark sponsorship moves, the hosts break down the latest headlines before welcoming an elite athlete-turned-executive who offers a rare look inside the Olympic movement and its commercial realities.

🏈 Darnold’s Redemption Tour — David puts Tim on the spot about Sam Darnold, once a pick of his beloved Jets, now leading the Seahawks on a stunning run to the Super Bowl.
📺 NFL Playoff Ratings Surge — The co-hosts unpack the eye-popping television numbers from this year’s NFL postseason and what they signal about the league’s continued dominance.
⚽ Trinity Rodman Makes History — A look at Rodman’s record-setting NWSL contract and the players association’s response to the landmark deal.
🏟️ CFP Holds at 12 Teams — Status quo reigns, at least for another season, as college football’s playoff format remains unchanged.
🤝 Sponsorship Spotlight — Lowe’s grabs the sleeve patch with Inter Miami, the NCAA opens the door for schools to sell their own jersey patches, and MLS partners with prediction market Polymarket.
🛷 Guest: Gordy Sheer — Olympic medalist and Director of Marketing at USA Luge, Gordy Sheer joins the show to reflect on his Olympic experience, preview what Team USA might expect in Milano-Cortina, and explain why long-term sponsors are vital to national governing bodies—including one partner that’s supported luge for more than 25 years.

Another episode that connects the dots between performance, policy, and partnerships across the sports business landscape.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩...𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? 𝙎𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙨𝙗𝙞𝙯 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘿𝙋 & 𝙈𝙘𝙂𝙝𝙚𝙚 is the podcast that takes an often irreverent, sometimes cynical, and on occasion a serious look at the business of sports. Sports marketing veterans David Paro and Tim McGhee bring their special brand of sports business commentary to this weekly show, and welcome some of the top luminaries in the industry for vibrant conversations.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the intersection of Sports & Business.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩...𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩?

Episode 143 | DP & McGhee return with their third episode of the year and dive headfirst into the rapidly evolving—and increasingly complicated—world of college sports. From championship glory to courtroom drama, the hosts break down the biggest stories shaping the collegiate landscape before welcoming a true industry luminary for a wide-ranging conversation on sports marketing, leadership, and legacy.

🏆 College Football Championship Recap — Indiana completes a perfect 16–0 season with a title-game victory over Miami, powered by another standout performance from Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
⚖️ NIL Meets the Courtroom — Duke University files suit alleging quarterback Darian Mensah breached his contract, raising new questions about enforcement and accountability in the NIL era.
🎲 NCAA Basketball Betting Scandal — The latest gambling controversy puts integrity, oversight, and athlete vulnerability back in the spotlight.
🕵️ Federal Scrutiny on Agents — The FTC steps in to examine agent conduct with student-athletes, signaling potential regulatory shifts ahead.

⚾🏀 CBA Watch: MLB & WNBA Negotiations — The hosts dig into the shifting labor landscape across MLB (in light of Kyle Tucker's signing with Dodgers), and WNBA.

🎙️ Guest Spotlight: Mike Reisman — The hosts are joined by sports marketing luminary Mike Reisman, founder and former managing partner of Velocity Sports & Entertainment (later part of MKTG). Mike reflects on building culture, navigating change in the industry, and the meaningful work he continues to do to honor his wife’s legacy.

As always, DP & McGhee blend sharp analysis with real-world experience to make sense of a sports business landscape that never stops changing.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 142 | In Episode 2 of Season 5, David and Tim roll with the changes as several major 2026 storylines continue to take shape across the sports business landscape.

🏁 NASCAR made a headline-grabbing move by announcing a return to the Chase format to determine its champion. David also points out why NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell being front and center for the announcement matters more than it might seem.

⛳ Big golf news as Brooks Koepka confirmed his intention to return to the PGA TOUR. But for Koepka — and others considering a move back from LIV Golf — the financial and contractual costs won’t be insignificant.

🏀 The guys agree that the WNBA’s decision to delay the free agency period is another encouraging sign in what continues to be a productive and thoughtful labor negotiation process.

And finally… Let’s Go Bears.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 141 | Season 5 of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP and McGhee kicks off with the annual tradition: Prediction Day. David and Tim look back at their 2025 calls to see what held up, what missed, and what changed—then turn their attention forward with a fresh set of bold (and occasionally risky) predictions for 2026, all against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving sports business landscape.

🔄 Season 5 opens with DP & McGhee reviewing last year’s predictions and setting the table for their 2026 outlook

🏁 A major NASCAR leadership shakeup as Commissioner Steve Phelps steps down following the release of unflattering internal communications tied to the settled 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports lawsuit

⛳ Golf’s power dynamics shift as Brooks Koepka announces his departure from LIV Golf—and what it could signal for the future of the breakaway league

📺 Live sports continue to dominate as the hosts unpack the staggering stat that 96 of the top 100 U.S. TV broadcasts in 2025 were sporting events

🔮 Looking ahead with bold predictions and big-picture thinking on what 2026 may hold for leagues, media, brands, and the business of sports

A season-opening episode that blends accountability, insight, and forward-looking analysis—classic DP & McGhee.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 140 | In this episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, David and Tim open with a wide-ranging look at the evolving power structure of college football — from conference brinkmanship and private equity to leadership dynamics at the highest levels of the sport.

The conversation then shifts to purpose and impact with Flo Bryan, Chief Corporate Alliance Officer at Make-A-Wish, exploring how sports marketing principles can drive meaningful outcomes well beyond the field.

In this episode:
🏈 A deep dive into college football power dynamics, leadership, and institutional credibility
🔥 Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark vs. Notre Dame, calling Pete Bevacqua’s comments “egregious” and escalating conference rhetoric
💼 The Big 12’s credit deal with RedBird Capital and Weatherford Capital — and what it signals for the future of conferences
💰 Utah’s reported $500M private equity deal with Otro Capital and its broader implications for college athletics
🚨 The latest University of Michigan football scandal, with head coach Sherrone Moore fired for cause
🎤 Vanderbilt QB and Heisman runner-up Diego Pavia’s outburst at the Heisman voting academy — and the apology that followed
🏁 The NASCAR settlement with two teams and why it could reshape the sport’s competitive and business landscape

🌟 Featured conversation with Flo Bryan (Make-A-Wish):
• Her career spanning sports and nonprofit leadership
• The intersection of sports marketing and cause marketing
• Applying lessons from elite sports organizations to drive impact in the nonprofit world

From boardrooms to locker rooms to wish-granting, this episode examines what it truly means to lead from ahead in modern sports — and beyond.

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 139 |

David and Tim roll out their first-ever special episode to break down the high-stakes antitrust case recently settled between Front Row Motorsports, 23XI Racing, and NASCAR.

They’re joined by Sports Business Journal motorsports insider Adam Stern, who had a front-row seat to every twist and turn after spending nearly two weeks inside the courtroom.

Adam delivers fresh insight into how the settlement came together before pulling listeners inside the trial itself — unpacking pivotal testimony, unexpected revelations, and the strategic maneuvers that shaped both sides’ cases.

He closes with a forward-looking assessment of what this outcome means for NASCAR, its teams, and the broader future of the sport.

𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀. 𝗢𝗰𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲. 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩?

Episode 138 |

DP & McGhee are fired up to welcome Michael Payne, the former head of marketing for the International Olympic Committee and author of the new book Fast Tracks and Dark Deals, for a deep dive into his 50-year journey through the global sports industry. Payne shares stories from the Olympic movement, his high-stakes work with Bernie Ecclestone at Formula 1, and encounters with sports business giants including past guests Rob Prazmark and Terence Burns.

Before his segment, the guys run through a lively mix of soccer, college football, and sponsorship headlines.

🎭 A FIFA Draw That Drew…Criticism
A breakdown of the widely panned made-for-TV FIFA Draw — plus more than one laugh at the Great One, Wayne Gretzky.

⚽ MLS Cup Delivers the Beautiful Game
A look at the Inter Miami vs. Vancouver Whitecaps clash and why it reaffirmed soccer’s timeless appeal.

🏈 College Football Playoff Frustration
David and Tim discuss the upcoming CFP and Notre Dame’s reasonable disappointment at being left out of the top 12, but question their decision to opt out of a bowl game appearance.

💼 Spotlight on Sponsorships
Quick hits on:

• PayPal’s new NFL partnership

• Toyota Gazoo Racing becoming new title partner of Haas F1, replacing DP's former employer, MoneyGram

• The first-ever college jersey patch sponsor

🏅 Michael Payne Joins the Show
Five decades of lessons from the man who helped build the modern Olympic commercial model — and later navigated the high-stakes world of Formula 1.

—

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩?

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟯𝟳 | In this episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, David and Tim welcome sports business leader Sarah Cummins, CEO of World Sevens Football. Sarah shares her dynamic career journey—from an early internship with the New York Mets to influential roles at WWE, the USTA, and New York Road Runners—before taking the helm of an ambitious new women’s soccer property.

It’s a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, innovation, and what it takes to build a sports brand from the ground up.

Before Sarah joins, DP & McGhee dive into the latest headlines:

🏈 Lane Kiffin Leaves Ole Miss — The guys break down Kiffin’s departure, his long history of abrupt exits and firings, and what this move means for the SEC and college football landscape.
🏎️ NASCAR vs. 23XI & Front Row Motorsports Trial — An update on the legal battle, the financial stakes, and whether a settlement might be brewing.
⚽ MLS Cup Heads to South Florida — A marquee Messi vs. Müller showdown and what it means for MLS’s visibility and momentum.
📺 MLB’s New Media Rights Deal — DP gives a crisp overview of the newly announced package and its implications for teams, fans, and broadcasters.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 136 | In this episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, the guys welcome Campus Multimedia Founder & CEO Karl Mawhinney for a deep dive into how brands can authentically connect with K–12 schools across the country.

Karl shares how lessons from his collegiate sports career translate to elementary, middle, and high school environments — and how his platform, SponsorPlace, supports principals, administrators, and athletic directors navigating today’s rapidly changing landscape.

Before Karl joins, DP & McGhee tackle a busy week in sports business news:

⚽ MLS Shakes Things Up — The league unveils a major shift as it prepares to align with the global football calendar in 2027.
📺 A More Accessible MLS — A tweak to the Apple TV deal expected to make match access easier for supporters.
🛰️ Disney & YouTubeTV Make Peace — David breathes a sigh of relief as ESPN and other Disney networks return to the platform.
🏀 NBA All-Star Game Tweaks — Both hosts cautiously praise the updated format, though Tim questions how international stars may be affected.
🎲 Another Betting Scandal? — The guys weigh in on a developing story tied to alleged gambling activity in Turkish football.

Wait, What?
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟯𝟱 | In this episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, the guys cover a full slate of breaking stories — and a powerful conversation with one of NASCAR’s most respected executives. From gambling scandals to leadership legacies, they explore what it really means to “lead from ahead.”

🎰 𝗠𝗟𝗕’𝘀 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘆 — and what it means for the league’s integrity

📺 𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗡 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗲𝗻𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘁 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘀 — what went wrong and what’s next

🏈 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝘂𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝘂𝗲’𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 on the NFL

🏟️ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗.𝗖. 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

🏁 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗻, 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗝𝗼𝗲 𝗚𝗶𝗯𝗯𝘀 𝗥𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀: 

• The winning culture Joe Gibbs has built over 30+ years 

• What makes JGR stand apart in the NASCAR landscape 

• His take on the current and future NASCAR championship format

Leadership, integrity, and culture — it’s all on the track in this week’s Wait, What?Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟯𝟰 | David and Tim are in full nostalgia mode this week as they count down their 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲. From classics to cult favorites, there’s some overlap, plenty of surprises, and a few shocking omissions — you’ll have to tune in to hear which films made their lists.

In between cinematic debates, the guys dive into some of the biggest stories in sports business this week:

⚾ 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗪𝗿𝗮𝗽-𝗨𝗽: A championship that delivered both on the field and in the ratings — why this one was a win for MLB.🏁 𝗡𝗔𝗦𝗖𝗔𝗥 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘆: Kyle Larson clinches his second Cup Series title, capping an extraordinary season, and denying Denny Hamlin is much-coveted championship.

🏈 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗹: Another week, another firing — this time Auburn parts ways with Hugh Freeze.

⛳𝗟𝗜𝗩 𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗳 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀: New developments from the still-upstart tour and what it means for golf’s future.

🏀 𝗛𝗮𝘄𝗸𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲: An Atlanta Hawks executive accused of embezzlement.

📺 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵: David shares his personal stake in the Disney vs. YouTube TV dispute, with insights on how these standoffs impact fans and networks alike.

🎬 Whether you’re a movie buff or a sportsbiz junkie, this episode is a fun mix of nostalgia, news, and no-holds-barred opinions from DP & McGhee.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business. 𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩?

David and Tim dive deep into the NBA betting scandal that’s sending shockwaves through the sports world. After warning for more than two years that something like this was bound to happen, they break down what it means for the league, the players, and the broader sports betting ecosystem.

🎰 NBA Betting Scandal

• Will Adam Silver testify before Congress?

• The American Gaming Association’s warning to leagues about prediction market companies

• Jaylen Brown’s comments on the lack of gambling education for players

⚾ World Series Watch

• Shohei Ohtani and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continue to dazzle as they lead the Dodgers and Blue Jays

🏈 College Football Shake-Up

• Brian Kelly is out — another high-profile firing (and another hefty buyout)

⚽ Messi’s New Deal

• Lionel Messi re-signs with Inter Miami, extending his contract through 2028

🏁 Final Lap

• Honoring Jets legend Nick Mangold and previewing the NASCAR Championship race

Episode 133 of Wait, What?
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 132 |

David and Tim are back and tipping off this week’s show with one of the NBA’s most respected executives — Ted Dalton, Executive Vice President and Chief Partnership Officer of the Boston Celtics. Ted shares insights from his 21-year career with the storied franchise, talks about the upcoming season, and explains how the Celtics’ culture drives everything the organization does, on and off the court.

Before welcoming their guest, DP & McGhee cover a fast-paced mix of global sports business headlines — from billion-dollar media deals to coaching carousel chaos.

Highlights from the episode:
🏎️ Apple’s F1 Power Play — The tech giant is making another big push into live sports, agreeing to pay over $140 million per year for Formula 1 media rights starting in 2026.
⚽ FIFA Balancing Act — The world’s soccer governing body faces pressure to appease leadership while keeping the 2026 World Cup preparations on track, and also announced a plan to help rebuild soccer fields in Gaza.
⚾ October Baseball Drama — The hosts preview the World Series showdown between Shohei Ohtani’s Dodgers and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Blue Jays, highlighting the global appeal of MLB’s biggest stage.
🎓 College Coaching Carousel — It’s that time of year again, as Jay Norvell (Colorado State) and Billy Napier (Florida) join the list of fired FBS coaches. So far, nine schools have paid over $100 million in buyouts this season alone.

🍀 Guest Spotlight: Ted Dalton, Boston Celtics

• Reflects on two decades with the Celtics and the evolution of NBA partnerships

• Explains how “Celtic culture” drives decision-making across the organization

• Previews the upcoming season and what’s ahead for Celtics Nation

• Shares insights on building long-term sponsor relationships in a changing sports landscape

Another lively mix of sports business insights, headlines, and humor on Wait, What? — Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 131 | DP & McGhee

David and Tim are back with another jam-packed episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, starting with a lively breakdown of the latest college football controversies — from chaos in Happy Valley to NCAA policy debates that could reshape the future of college athletics.

Then, they welcome Wade Martin, COO and CEO, Baseball at Unrivaled Sports, for an in-depth conversation about the state of youth sports, sponsor engagement opportunities, and his own fascinating journey through the business of sports.

Highlights from the episode:
🏈 College Football Fireworks — The guys dissect the turmoil at Penn State, where coach James Franklin’s firing has sparked questions from the board of trustees over a new Adidas deal featuring an $500,000 product allowance for the athletic director.

🕵️‍♂️ UNC Under Scrutiny — A Tar Heels cornerbacks coach is under investigation for providing impermissible benefits to a player’s parents.

🎰 Betting & Branding on Campus — The NCAA is weighing whether to allow student-athletes to bet on pro sports and sell jersey patches to sponsors — opening new commercial frontiers (and new ethical debates).

⚾ MLB Playoffs & Paydays — David mourns his Cubs’ early exit before he and Tim dig into the upcoming CBA negotiations and the growing talk of an MLB salary cap.

🏀 NBA & WNBA Buzz — The NBA makes its return to China, while Tim goes out on a limb with a bold prediction about the new WNBA commissioner.

 Guest Spotlight: Wade Martin (Unrivaled Sports) — The Unrivaled Sports COO/CEO joins the show to talk:

• The evolution of youth sports and its booming ecosystem

• Opportunities for brand sponsors to authentically engage families and communities

• The future of youth baseball and its place in the larger sports landscape

• Wade’s career path and lessons from building successful organizations across multiple sports sectors

Another week, another mix of insight, debate, and fun on Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 130

David and Tim are back with another jam-packed episode of Wait, What? — diving into the latest headlines across the sports industry with their trademark mix of insight and humor. From the WNBA’s contrasting narratives to record TV ratings and eyebrow-raising political involvement in sports, they cover it all.

🏀 WNBA: A Tale of Two Stories — The on-court product has never been better with the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury in the Finals, but off the court, a tense labor standoff continues between players (led by Napheesa Collier) and ownership (represented by Cathy Engelbert).
🏈 Mark Sanchez Situation — The guys discuss the troubling developments surrounding the former Jets QB and current Fox Sports announcer.
⚾ MLB Wild Card Ratings Surge — ESPN celebrates a massive 64% increase in viewership for the Wild Card Series compared to 2024.
💸 Money Talks — LIV Golf reports staggering losses of almost $462 million, while NBCUniversal nearly sells out its NBA ad inventory months before tipoff.
🤝 Sponsorship Spotlights —
• David highlights Starbucks’ new partnership with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee.
• Tim salutes AT&T for renewing its long-running sponsorship of the NCAA and March Madness.
🏛️ Politics Meets Sports — The current administration takes center stage with a flurry of moves and statements affecting the sports world — from FIFA World Cup visa denials and ICE threats at the Super Bowl to UFC’s bold plans for an event on the White House lawn.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Wait, What?

Episode 129

David and Tim are in class with three distinguished educators who are shaping the next generation of sports business leaders: Andy Clark (DePaul University), Keith Cutler (Montclair State University), and Mary Scott (Columbia University). This episode dives into the evolution of academic programs, the critical importance of industry connections, and how students can best prepare for a successful career in the sports world.

Topics this week include:

• ⛳️ Ryder Cup Recap – DP & McGhee weigh in on the competition and the poor behavior of some American fans.

• 🎤 Super Bowl Halftime News – The NFL names global superstar Bad Bunny as the next halftime performer.

• 🏫 Sports Management Education – Our guests discuss the evolution of programs, the importance of industry ties, and how students can best prepare for sportsbiz careers.

• 🏀 WNBA Labor Tensions – Napheesa Collier's pointed comments raise questions about the growing divide between players and owners ahead of collective bargaining.

𝘞𝘢𝘪𝘵, 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 128

DP & McGhee are joined by legendary sports marketer Tom Fox, whose remarkable career has spanned leadership roles at Nike, Gatorade, Wasserman, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and the San Jose Earthquakes. Tom shares behind-the-scenes stories from his journey and offers sharp insights into the rapidly evolving sports business landscape.

Before Tom joins, David and Tim break down the week’s biggest sports business headlines — from game-changing tech in baseball to major stadium developments across the U.S.

This episode covers:
📊 Nielsen’s new methodology – What it means for sponsorship values and media rights fees
⚾ MLB’s ABS System – How automated balls and strikes could change the game forever
🏈 Tom Brady’s potential competitive edge as an NFL owner given his role at Fox Sports
🏟️ Stadium shake-ups – Big updates in D.C., Cleveland, and Chicago with ripple effects for fans and franchises
🌟 Tom Fox’s storied career – Lessons from decades shaping the global sports industry

An episode packed with insider knowledge, bold predictions, and smart takes from one of the legends of the business.

Wait, What?
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 127 | DP & McGhee

This week’s episode features a wide-ranging conversation with Mark Wright, VP of Media & Sponsorships at AT&T. From his early career at AB InBev to leading sponsorship strategy at one of the world’s biggest brands, Mark shares insights on career growth, brand respect, and the importance of measuring partnerships.

Alongside our guest spotlight, DP & McGhee dive into the week’s biggest stories shaping the business of sports:

🏀 Clippers Controversy – Steve Ballmer invested another $10M into Aspiration, the company at the center of allegations involving a $28M Kawhi Leonard endorsement payment.
💼 NBA Reorganization – Two former podcast guests take on expanded leadership roles in a sweeping league restructuring.
🏆 WNBA Playoffs & News – Playoff updates, looming work stoppage talk, and the proposed sale of the Connecticut Sun.
🎾 US Open Surge – Record-breaking viewership and historic attendance milestones in Flushing.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Wait, What?

Episode 126 | DP & McGhee

No guest? No problem. David and Tim fire up the mics for a packed episode covering the biggest stories in sports business — with sharp insights and a touch of humor.

Here’s what you’ll hear this week:

🏈 NFL Week 1 Ratings — Eagles-Cowboys nearly set a record (until weather interfered), and YouTube delivers solid numbers for Chiefs-Chargers. But should they have been bigger?

💰 Super Bowl Ad Frenzy — NBC sells out Super Bowl LX at a record pace, locking in $8M per :30. With the Super Bowl, Winter Olympics, and NBA All-Star Game all in Q1 2026, NBC is sitting on a media jackpot.

🏀 NBA Salary Cap Scandal? — Kawhi Leonard allegedly received $28M for a “no-show” endorsement deal, raising questions about whether owner Steve Ballmer is skirting cap rules.

🤝 Spotlight on Sponsorships — Two major deals: American Express replaces Visa as the NFL’s credit card sponsor, and Tide cleans up with a new NWSL deal.

🌍 Around the Sports World — From presidential game-day cameos to F1 keeping Monaco on the calendar, plus final thoughts on the U.S. Open.

A full slate of sportsbiz insights, hot takes, and the occasional nonsense — exactly what you expect from Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 125 | DP & McGhee

David and Tim return from the long weekend ready to dive into a packed episode filled with college football, NASCAR drama, and Ryder Cup anticipation. From major wins on the field to intense battles off of it, this episode covers the latest developments across multiple sports while featuring two powerhouse guests from the world of golf.

Here’s what they cover:

🏈 College Football Kickoff
UNC gets trounced in their season opener.
Florida State makes a statement with a huge win over Alabama.
ESPN's College GameDay posts record ratings as they bid farewell to Lee Corso in his retirement send-off.

🏎️ NASCAR News & Drama
Intense legal battles heat up between NASCAR, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports — a fight that’s now public and very personal.

🏁 Motorsports Spotlight
Big storylines in F1, including success of F1 the Movie and major sponsorship news surrounding McLaren.

⛳ Ryder Cup Special Guests
DP and McGhee are joined by Jeff Price, Chief Commercial and Philanthropy Officer of the PGA of America, and Richard Bunn, Chief Revenue and Content Officer of the DP World Tour, to discuss:

• What makes the Ryder Cup one of the most unique and exciting events in sports.

• Their go-to-market strategy for attracting and retaining commercial partnerships.

• The impressive lineup of blue-chip sponsors backing the event.

This episode brings a perfect mix of analysis, breaking news, and insider perspectives — a must-listen for sports business fans as the fall season heats up!

—
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Wait, What?

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟮𝟰 | 𝗗𝗣 & 𝗠𝗰𝗚𝗵𝗲𝗲

In this episode, David and Tim sit down with Keith Gill, Commissioner of the Sun Belt Conference, for an open and wide-ranging conversation on the future of college sports. Gill shares his perspective on the College Football Playoff expansion, the transfer portal, and reflects on his own journey as a student-athlete at Duke University.

Before Gill joins the show, DP & McGhee break down some of the hottest topics in sports business:
⛳ PGA TOUR initiative: CEO Brian Rolapp establishes a new Future Competition Committee, with Tiger Woods as chair
⚾ MLB’s evolving media strategy: Netflix secures streaming rights to the Home Run Derby
🏀 NBA ownership moves: Finalization of the Celtics and Trail Blazers team sales
👏 WNBA milestone: Record-setting league attendance

And, a tribute to a motorsports marketing legend, Humpy Wheeler. 🏁

A jam-packed episode covering pro leagues, media, and the ever-changing college sports landscape.

𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗞𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗶𝗹𝗹, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝗪𝗮𝗶𝘁, 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 123 | DP & McGhee

In this episode, David Paro and Tim McGhee kick things off with their signature Spotlight on Sponsorships before diving into big stories across the sports business landscape. They wrap things up with a conversation with Ahmad Nassar, Executive Director of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) and CEO of Winners Alliance.

✨ Spotlight on Sponsorships
🏟️ Olympic Venue Naming Rights – LA2028 makes history by selling venue naming rights, while iconic sites like Dodger Stadium and the Rose Bowl remain untouched.
🚗 NASCAR Series Title Change – O’Reilly Auto Parts replaces Xfinity as the title sponsor of NASCAR’s second series, creating a strong endemic fit.
🪖 USAA & NFL – USAA renews its long-standing partnership with the NFL, with DP highlighting Tim’s role in the original deal.

📑 Around the Leagues
🏒 NHL CBA Quietly Renewed – A major labor milestone passes with little fanfare.
🏈 Football Headlines – Updates on the Brian Flores discrimination case, more turbulence within the NFLPA, and NCAA sanctions for Michigan football.

🎾 Guest Spotlight: Ahmad Nassar
David and Tim welcome Ahmad Nassar, Executive Director of the PTPA and CEO of Winners Alliance. He shares:

• The PTPA’s mission to give tennis players a stronger collective voice and improve their careers both on and off the court.

• The difference and similarities between various players associations.

• His experience as a leader at NFL Players, Inc.

Wait, What?
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 122 | DP & McGhee
Co-hosts David Paro and Tim McGhee open with a sharp look at recent headline-making moves in sports media. They break down the NFL’s $2.5B stake in ESPN—part of a massive $25B valuation—and Fox Sports’ strategic investment in IndyCar, exploring how these deals could reshape the sports broadcast and rights landscape.
The discussion then tackles the troubling persistence of sexism and misogyny in sports. DP & McGhee address incidents like sex toys being thrown onto the court at WNBA games, and examine both the progress and pushback faced by Jen Pawol, MLB’s first female umpire, who recently made history in Atlanta.
This week’s guest is Liz DiLullo Brown, EVP and Chief Marketing & Business Relationships Officer for Little League International. Liz shares insights from the just-completed Little League Softball World Series and previews the Little League World Series, beginning August 13 in Williamsport, PA. She explains how Little League is evolving to stay culturally relevant and details the organization’s growing partnership with Major League Baseball to inspire the next generation of athletes.
𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀. 𝗢𝗰𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲. 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀.
𝗪𝗮𝗶𝘁, 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁?

Episode 121 | DP & McGhee

In this Legends Series episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, co-hosts David Paro and Tim McGhee sit down with industry pioneer Frank Vuono — a true architect of the modern sports marketing era. From supercharging the NFL’s licensing operation in the 1980s to co-founding ISI and 16W Marketing, Frank shares hard-earned insights and behind-the-scenes stories from a remarkable career spent working with some of the biggest names in sports.

But first, DP & McGhee run through another wild week in sports:

⚽ MLS Mashup: No vote yet on switching to the international soccer calendar — plus Messi and Jordi Alba face suspensions after skipping the All-Star Game.
🧠 NFL HQ Shooting & CTE: A tragic incident at the NFL’s office building leads to broader questions around mental health and its connection to CTE — a thread picked up from last week's powerful convo with Leonard Marshall.
⚾ Legends Lost: Honoring two icons — baseball great Ryne Sandberg and wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan.
💥 Bryce vs. The Boss: Bryce Harper stirs the pot again, this time calling out MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Bold conversations. Real legends. Only on Wait, What?

Episode 120 | DP & McGhee

In this wide-ranging episode, co-hosts David Paro and Tim McGhee sit down with former New York Giants star Leonard Marshall. Known for his dominant play on the field, Marshall opens up about his legendary NFL career, his championship days in New York, and his impressive post-football business ventures. But before welcoming Leonard, the hosts take a lap around the world of sports and culture with their trademark wit and insight.

Here’s what they cover:

🎸 RIP to a Rock Icon
The hosts reflect on the passing of Ozzy Osbourne and his cultural impact well beyond music.

🏀 WNBA Making Waves

• The All-Star Game fashion statement: players sported T-shirts calling for a new CBA

• Questions around the quality of play in the game itself

• Paige Bueckers goes public with her relationship with former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd

• How WNBA players are strategically messaging their demands for progress

🏌️ Open Championship Recap
Scottie Scheffler adds another major to his résumé with a win at The Open.

🏈 NFLPA in Flux
More drama within the NFL Players Association as internal upheaval continues.

💬 Then it’s time to go deep with Leonard Marshall — NFL great, business leader, and true renaissance man.

Tune in for a blend of sports nostalgia, breaking headlines, and sharp commentary that only DP & McGhee can deliver.
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Bold conversations, powered by Wait, What?

Episode 119 | DP & McGhee

DP & McGhee return with a wide-ranging look at the latest in sports and sports business — from the All-Star Game to a possible showdown in MLB labor talks.

They also break down the shocking indictment of Oak View Group Founder & CEO, Tim Leiweke, and what it means for the future of OVG and other management firms.

Also in this episode:
🌭 Joey Chestnut’s wildest records
🎾 Wimbledon on and off the court
🏆 Chelsea’s Club World Cup beatdown of PSG
🏁 Shane van Gisbergen keeps dominating road courses

From labor disputes to competitive eating, it’s all in play.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.
Bold conversations, fresh from the pod — this is Wait, What?

Episode 118 | DP & McGhee

🎙️ Hot Takes on Hot Dogs
Co-hosts David Paro and Tim McGhee kick off with the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, praising Joey Chestnut’s continued dominance while diving into the controversy surrounding the women’s winner’s disqualification.

⭐ WNBA All-Star Pay & Player Power Moves
The hosts spotlight the modest All-Star bonuses for WNBA players and the Players Association’s rejection of the league’s initial CBA proposal. Plus, they dig into a potential conflict of interest as Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart wear multiple hats—as union leaders and co-founders of the rival Unrivaled league.

🏁 NASCAR in the Windy City
David recaps the Chicago Street Race, won by Shane van Gisbergen, and debates whether the event has staying power on NASCAR’s calendar.

📺 Politics, Paramount & CBS Sports
The show takes a turn toward politics, reacting to Paramount’s $16.5M settlement with Donald Trump and asking what it could mean for CBS Sports’ brand partners.

🇨🇦 Bills Mafia Border Woes?
Could Canadian Bills fans bail on games this season? Tim flags some cross-border red tape that might hit home attendance.

🥎 Feature Interview: Vanessa Taveras – Athletes Unlimited
Vanessa Taveras, Chief Partnerships Officer at Athletes Unlimited, joins to talk about:
• The surge in women’s sports
• What makes the AU Softball league unique
• How she pitches AU to brands looking for authentic, athlete-first platforms

🎧 A jam-packed episode that blends hot dogs, fast laps, political shakeups, and the future of women-led sports leagues.

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business. Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟭𝟳 | 𝗗𝗣 & 𝗠𝗰𝗚𝗵𝗲𝗲

This week, DP & McGhee sit down with Scott Carmichael, founder and CEO of Prodigy Search — one of the most trusted names in executive search across sports. From Lakers ball boy to front-office insider, Scott shares what’s changed in the hiring game and what’s next for leadership in sports.

Also: It’s July 1 — which means birthdays, Bonilla, and a few curveballs from the sports business world.

🎙️ Scott Carmichael on
His path from ball boy to CEO
How the search business has evolved
What hiring companies and candidates often get wrong
The next wave of leadership in sports

🎂 July 1 Highlights
Debbie Harry turns 80
NIL anniversary — how college sports changed 💰
Bobby Bonilla Day (yes, again) ⚾💸
A nod to Red Dawn, the first PG-13 movie 🎬

📈 SportsBiz Rundown
Malik Beasley investigation 🕵️‍♂️
WNBA expansion updates 🏀
Big sponsorships from AARP, MGM, and PayPal 🤝
FIFA Club World Cup status check 🌍⚽

🎥 David reviews the F1 movie
Start your engines — it’s a hit. 🏎️🔥

Fast Takes. Smart Analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business. Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 116 | DP & McGhee
This week, we tackle the biggest headlines in the sports business — from NBA expansion rumors to Wrexham’s stunning $475M valuation — and then sit down with Julie Giese, President of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race.

We cover:
• Julie’s path from Watkins Glen to Phoenix to the heart of Chicago
• How NASCAR brought racing to city streets — and pulled it off
• What it really takes to grow a career in sports

Plus:
• $10B Lakers valuation — and what it means for expansion fees
• Joe Gibbs Racing’s dominance at Pocono
• Manchester United ticket prices on the rise
• Who scored (and who slid) in the NBA & NHL Finals TV#s
• Haliburton’s injury and the Pacers’ outlook

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

115 | DP & McGhee

What's behind the headlines in sports this week? DP & McGhee serve up another fast-paced rundown of the latest in the business of sport:

 PGA TOUR Enterprises makes a power move, naming Brian Rolapp (former NFL media chief) as CEO. What does this mean for the future of the TOUR and any potential reunification with players on the LIV Tour?

 Scott O’Neil and Chris Heck are back together—this time at LIV Golf.

 JJ Spaun stuns the field and captures the U.S. Open—we look at what his win means.

 FIFA Club World Cup struggles to sell tickets in the U.S.—Was this a complete miss by FIFA?

 WNBA is in talks with ION for renewing media rights. Should the players be at the table?

 NASCAR was in Mexico City—What was the reception? You'll hear a few different narratives.

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business. Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 114 | DP & McGhee
From Emirates to Abu Dhabi, Roger Duthie has had a front-row seat to the Middle East’s emergence as a global force in sports. This week, he joins DP & McGhee to share stories from his time leading sponsorships at Emirates Airline — and to break down how the Gulf region became a sports power center seemingly overnight.

We cover:
• The Emirates playbook on global sponsorships
• How the Middle East changed the game in soccer, tennis, F1 & more
• What Western leagues and brands should expect next

Plus, DP & McGhee hit the headlines:
🏫 NCAA House Settlement — what it means for athlete compensation
🎾 French Open wrap-up
📉 Ratings watch: NBA & NHL Finals struggle to hold attention
⭐️ The real value of star power in today’s media market

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

No guest this week? No problem.

DP & McGhee are talking business—this week, specifically the business of sports media. From why NBA and Stanley Cup Finals ratings could be historically low, to MLB’s attendance and viewership boom, this week’s episode is a tour through the shifting sports TV landscape.

🎯 Topics covered:

• 📉 Why NBA & NHL Finals ratings may dip (and who’s to blame)

• 📈 MLB’s strong rebound: ratings, rules, and real fan interest

• 🏀 Knicks coaching drama & what it means for MSG

• 🚐 The Oscar Mayer Weiner Mobile’s return to glory

• ⚽ MLS’s latest news and its long-term media outlook

Plus, some unexpected detours through Tim Robbins’ filmography and WKRP in Cincinnati. Because of course.

Subscribe to Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee for weekly insights into the business behind the box scores.

Episode 112 | DP & McGhee
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, DP & McGhee sit down with Dr. Mara Smith, a mental performance consultant to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and a former college gymnast, to explore how athletes are approaching mental fitness at the highest levels. Her insights on Simone Biles and the pressures elite athletes face are essential listening.

Also in this week’s episode:
• DP’s bold (and slightly delusional?) pick for 2025’s biggest sports story: Cornell lacrosse
• The passing of Colts owner Jim Irsay — what it means for the NFL
• Caitlin Clark’s injury and its ripple effect on the WNBA’s business momentum
• A look at Memorial Day weekend’s triple-header of racing action

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 111 | DP & McGhee
With the launch of his new docuseries Earnhardt on Amazon Prime Video, award-winning filmmaker Josh Altman joins the show to talk about capturing the legacy of Dale Earnhardt, earning the trust of the family, and what it takes to tell a story that resonates in and beyond the world of sports. The DP & McGhee endorsement of this project is strong.

Also in this episode:
• MLB’s stunning move: Rob Manfred lifts the lifetime bans on Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson — what it means for Cooperstown
• WNBA season tip-off and early business signals
• NBA Playoffs viewership — winners, losers, and what it means for ad spend
• MLS club valuations — DP & McGhee go full Wall Street

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 110 | DP & McGhee
If you’ve ever picked up the phone to find Terry Lefton on the line, you know you’re in for a smart, fast, and entertaining conversation. The longtime sports marketing journalist returns as the first-ever repeat guest on Wait, What? — and this time, DP & McGhee are the ones asking the questions. From how the sports media game has changed to what he’s watching most closely now, Terry brings sharp insight and great stories.

Before the interview, the hosts break down the week in sportsbiz, including:
• NBA Playoff viewership trends and what's driving the numbers
• F1’s financial outlook and global growth trajectory
• ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer product — and its brilliantly simple name
• Shilo or Shadeur? The Deion effect lives on
• Media Upfronts and what’s next for broadcast deals
• MJ joining the NBA on NBC broadcast team
• And yes, another correction segment from Tim

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 109 | DP & McGhee
With squash officially set to debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics, Kevin Klipstein, President & CEO of U.S. Squash, joins the show to talk about what this means for the sport’s future — from visibility and participation to investment and infrastructure. He also shares what it takes to lead a sport with deep roots but a modern growth mindset.

Also this week:
• 🐎 Kentucky Derby recap — on and off the track
• 📺 NBA Playoff ratings: which matchups are driving viewership
• 🏀 Gregg Popovich’s retirement — the end of an era in San Antonio
• 🔦 Spotlight on Sponsorship: three smart partnerships worth your attention
• 🎧 And in a show first, a listener calls out a Tim mistake — and he owns it

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 108 | DP & McGhee
This week, DP & McGhee welcome Jeff Gooding, VP of Marketing at Ace Hardware, to talk about the company’s new partnership with Major League Baseball — and how they activate that at both the national and local level across 5,000 stores. Jeff also shares one of the most grounded, practical pieces of career advice we’ve heard for anyone looking to break into the sports industry.

Also in this episode:
• NBA and NHL Playoff updates — and what matters from a business POV
• The NFL Draft recap: Cam Ward goes first, but Shadeur Sanders steals the narrative
• Mel Kiper’s hot takes on Sanders — analysis or obsession?
• Celebrating the legendary Lee Corso as he retires from ESPN after 38 years

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 107 | DP & McGhee
Imagine a platform connecting over 115,000 student-athletes with brands for endorsement deals, influencer campaigns, and content partnerships. That’s Opendorse, and this week, DP & McGhee welcome TJ Ciro, SVP of Partnerships, to break down how the platform operates at scale — and what’s next in the NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) space. From compliance to creativity, this conversation is packed with insights on the fast-changing college sports marketing landscape.

Also in this episode:
• 📈 The Masters TV ratings and what the numbers say about golf viewership
• 🏀 NBA’s spring rebound — how far can it go?
• 🏈 The NFL’s continued revenue dominance
• ⚽ MLB sponsorship trends
• 🏆 WNBA headlines heading into a pivotal season

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 106 | DP & McGhee
It’s early April, so of course DP & McGhee are talking Final Four basketball and Masters Week — with a few twists. They dig into both the Men’s and Women’s tournaments before David confesses a take that might ruffle tradition-loving hoops fans. Then it’s on to golf, as the hosts weigh in on the fractured state of the game and where things go from here.

Later in the episode, Jason Langwell, Chief Revenue Officer of TMRW Sports, joins the show to talk about the debut season of TGL — the innovative golf league backed by Tiger, Rory, and others. Jason shares key insights on the future of the sport, building new formats for modern fans, and where TMRW Sports is headed next.

Also in this episode:
• NCAA Tournament business takeaways
• The Masters and brand affinity
• PGA vs. LIV: is resolution in sight?

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?

Episode 105 | DP & McGhee
This week, DP & McGhee sit down with sports marketing legend Rick Jones for a conversation that spans nearly 50 years of partnerships, storytelling, and bold thinking. From building the iconic Werner Ladder x March Madness deal to shaping historic Final Fours, Rick shares war stories and lessons from a career spent at the center of the action.

Also in this episode:
• 🔥 Pat McAfee’s amplification of a false MLB rumor — and the fallout
• ⚾ The “torpedo” moment hitting Major League Baseball — and why it matters for the league’s future
• 🏀 Thoughts on this year’s NCAA Tournament — through the eyes of a marketing veteran

🎧 Fast takes. Smart analysis. Always at the intersection of sports and business.
Don’t miss this episode of Wait, What?