Feb 16, 2026
Welcome to episode 232 of Sports Management Podcast.
Today’s guest is JP Lutz - a former Philadelphia Eagles executive turned professor, entrepreneur, and cancer survivor.
We spoke about:
- Breaking into the sports industry
- Why ‘luck’ is actually positioning
- The power of always saying yes
- How building relationships can define your entire career.
And much more!
This one is packed with practical advice for anyone who wants to work in sports and a powerful life lesson you won’t forget.
SPONSOR:
Listeners of the Sports Management Podcast get an exclusive 20% off on SportsPro+ with the code SMPOD20. All you need to do is head to sportspro.com/membership and start exploring today.
Time stamps:
00:00 From Working Elevators to the
NFL
04:25 Why You Must Say Yes Early in Your Career
06:24 Creating Your Own Luck in Sports
08:10 How to Network the Right Way
12:53 Do You Need a Degree to Work in Sports?
17:11 The Magic of Game Day
19:52 $5 an Hour and Moving Back Home
22:34 Transitioning from Pro Sports to Higher Ed
23:56 Starting a Sports Business from a Basement
25:27 Soft Skills That Actually Matter
29:19 A Cancer Diagnosis at 46
32:39 The Power of Being Proactive About Health
34:30 AI, Analytics & The Future of Sports Jobs
36:55 Why You Should Consider Entrepreneurship
41:45 Career Advice: Follow Your Heart and Say Yes
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