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.
Arts and Culture organizations are navigating unprecedented challenges with remarkable resilience. This powerful conversation with Andrew Recinos, President and CEO of Tessitura, reveals how arts leaders are responding to uncertainty with both anxiety and determination.
”I'm seeing a lot of anxiety,” Recinos acknowledges, ”but right alongside it, I'm seeing grit and tenacity.” Rather than freezing or fleeing when faced with funding cuts and political shifts, arts organizations are fighting—not aggressively, but by recommitting to their founding principles and serving communities that need artistic experiences more than ever.
The conversation explores technology's evolving role in arts management, particularly how it should enhance rather than replace meaningful human connections. While AI offers powerful revenue optimization tools, Recinos cautions against treating audiences ”like ATMs,” advocating instead for community-centered approaches that build lasting relationships.
Beyond strategic considerations, Recinos emphasizes leadership practices crucial for these challenging times: acknowledging anxiety without succumbing to it, providing consistent direction, and prioritizing self-care to prevent burnout. The most resilient arts organizations share three characteristics: they know their mission deeply, provide steady leadership, and focus primarily on serving their communities.
Whether you're leading an arts organization through turbulent times or simply passionate about cultural sustainability, this episode offers invaluable insights into maintaining artistic integrity while building organizational resilience. Take a listen—and maybe a forest bath afterward.
Recorded Tuesday, May 20th, 2025
Hosts: Meghan Goria, Account Group Director for Arts & Culture, Situation & Damian Bazadona, CEO & Founder, Situation
Guest: Andrew Recinos, President and CEO, Tessitura
Producer: Peter Yagecic, Innovation Advisor, Situation
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