Fandom Unpacked
Fandom Unpacked
Podcast Description
Fandom has long been the heartbeat of in-person sports, music, and entertainment experiences, with modern fans organizing and sharing their love (or despair) across hundreds of different platforms. Fandom Unpacked is a 30-minute ask-me-anything style series where we aim to understand the power of modern fandom by engaging with some of the brightest minds in sports and entertainment. We pose a series of questions to our guests to gain insight into the shape of fandom in their industry, inviting our audience to join in on the fun by participating in our bi-monthly livestreams. Register at https://situationlive.com/fan.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show delves into several themes surrounding fandom, including community building in sports and entertainment, authentic fan engagement, and emotional storytelling, with episodes featuring discussions on immersive experiences like fandom at sea, the evolution of PBS as a trusted media brand, and the passionate commitment of local sports teams.
Fandom has long been the heartbeat of in-person sports, music, and entertainment experiences, with modern fans organizing and sharing their love (or despair) across hundreds of different platforms. Fandom Unpacked is a 30-minute ask-me-anything style series where we aim to understand the power of modern fandom by engaging with some of the brightest minds in sports and entertainment. We pose a series of questions to our guests to gain insight into the shape of fandom in their industry, inviting our audience to join in on the fun by participating in our bi-monthly livestreams. Register at https://situationlive.com/fan.
Ever felt like sports media wasn't speaking your language? Jacie deHoop, co-founder of The Gist, is changing that conversation by creating content for ”GISTers” – predominantly female, millennial and Gen Z sports fans who love the game but haven't felt fully welcomed by traditional coverage.
When deHoop and her co-founders launched The Gist, they faced significant skepticism. Critics claimed women weren't interested in sports and there wasn't a viable business model. Fast forward to today, with over one million newsletter subscribers and a 46% open rate, those critics have been proven spectacularly wrong. What The Gist recognized that others missed was the massive untapped potential in serving fans who love sports but don't necessarily fit the traditional mold.
What makes The Gist's approach particularly powerful is authenticity. They don't treat women's sports or female fans as a diversity project or marketing opportunity, but as a legitimate business venture with tremendous growth potential. As deHoop puts it, underserved audiences shouldn't be dismissed as ”niche” – smart businesses should examine the actual addressable market size, spending power, and influence these fans wield.
Whether you're a sports industry professional or simply a fan who's felt overlooked by mainstream coverage, this conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into how The Gist is transforming sports media by centering those who've traditionally been left on the sidelines.
Recorded Tuesday, August 5th, 2025
Hosts: Damian Bazadona, CEO & Founder, Situation & Lisa Cecchini, Managing Partner, Situation
Guest: Jacie deHoop, Co-Founder, The Gist
Producer: Peter Yagecic, Innovation Advisor, Situation
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