Welcome to our two parts series here on the Athletic Podcast Network.

I am Mike Smeltz and throughout this series we will dive deep into the cutting edge of sports.

How technology is changing the way the games are being played and watched.

In this episode, we'll focus on the fan experience.

The ticket buying process has changed from a static experience to something more akin to signing

up for a membership at a country club.

Fans today only have two options.

They can buy season tickets or they can brave the Wild Wild West, which is trying to

navigate resold tickets from brokers and scalpers.

And I think what we provide is a very unique alternative.

For fans at home, leagues are increasingly investing in alternative broadcasts

to tailor presentations for all types of fans. The tech element is huge. You know, you don't need

satellite trucks outside of Peyton Manning's house or outside of Eeyline Manning's house. It comes off

like a television product, like a traditional linear product. And the coin process of buying some

baseball cards has gone virtual with the incredible

innovations of NFTs.

Boy, an easy way to explain NFTs.

It's like, hey, show me a picture of the lock mess monster.

On this episode, you'll hear from each of those experts on how the fan experience is changing and will continue to change in the future.

First up is Chris Giles, CEO of Fan Rally, a unique company that is changing the concept of season tickets.

Prior to starting Fan Rally, I ran sports teams.

I spent a number of years as the CEO of the Oakland A's and before that

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