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The Stack: How AI Is Driving Rapid Change in Business

This week’s column dives into Mary Meeker’s latest report, and also looks at how Road Runner Sports is elevating its customer experience This story is part of “The Stack,” a weekly column that takes a deep dive into the ways tech companies are shaping the future of fitness and wellness I was surprised to see an […]

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This week’s column dives into Mary Meeker’s latest report, and also looks at how Road Runner Sports is elevating its customer experience
This story is part of “The Stack,” a weekly column that takes a deep dive into the ways tech companies are shaping the future of fitness and wellness

I was surprised to see an email in my inbox about a new report from Bond, the venture capital firm based in San Francisco and founded by Mary Meeker. Following the link brought me to a massive 340-page report. It was like Christmas in July.

If you don’t know, Meeker is known as the “Queen of the Internet.” While at Morgan Stanley, Meeker and Chris DePuy published “The Internet Report,” which guided investors through the dot-com boom era and beyond. So, what does she and her co-authors of “Trends – Artificial Intelligence” have to say today? A lot.

The report covers everything from soup to nuts, and includes chapters on AI deployment, usage, costs, growth, the competitive landscape, capital expenditures and IRL uses such as at work.  

The report paints an AI landscape using numerous graphs and charts, mostly festooned with arrows that go up, but also with some bleak data points such as “monetization threats.”

One of the key takeaways of the report is the speed of change occurring.

“To say the world is changing at unprecedented rates is an understatement,” the report’s authors said. “Rapid and transformative technology innovation/adoption represent key underpinnings of these changes. As does leadership evolution for the global powers.”

The report noted the rise of Google, Alibaba and Facebook – each experiencing growth arcs that were relatively steady.

“Fast forward to today with the world’s organized, connected and accessible information being supercharged by artificial intelligence, accelerating computing power and semi-borderless capital … all driving massive change,” the authors of the report said. “Sport provides a good analogy for AI’s constant improvements. As athletes continue to wow us and break records, their talent is increasingly enhanced by better data/inputs/training. The same is true for businesses, where computers are ingesting massive datasets to get smarter and more competitive.”

Over time, the speed of change is only expected to increase, so hang on.

If you want to learn more, download the report here. 

The New Kid on the Block

The latest development in AI is “Agentic AI,” which is the spooky one that works autonomously with little human oversight. Instead, it runs on its own to reach specific goals. This form of AI joins the ranks of other powerful models, such as predictive and generative AI. In truth, Agentic AI is not so much spooky as it is advanced.

For the retail, hospitality and fitness industries, companies such as Profitmind are working with businesses to create an “intelligence layer” with Agentic AI that can assist in price optimization, performance analysis and inventory analysis. It can even be used in competitive and white space analysis.

SalesRevv dashboard shows a text message conversation
SalesRevv, a software platform for fitness brands, uses agentic AI in text messages (credit: SalesRevv)

In IBM’s latest “Global C-suite Series” report, analysts polled CEOs and looked at how Agentic AI can help businesses move from profitability to greater productivity. 

“Technology promises to help them make smarter, better decisions that drive growth and stakeholder value,” the report’s authors said. “AI agents, in particular, offer predictive capabilities that let teams see the impact of change before they lift a finger. This autonomous, adaptive and self-iterating technology is already dramatically changing how businesses operate.”

Business leaders are taking note. IBM’s survey of executives found that 61 percent of CEOs polled “say their organization is actively adopting AI agents and preparing to implement them at scale.”

Tying Everything Together

Road Runner Sports, the nationwide fitness retailer, recently teamed up with unified commerce solutions leader Aptos to implement the tech company’s modern, mobile-first Point of Sale (POS) platform, Aptos One. This strategic deployment, extending across Road Runner Sports’ 50-plus U.S. stores, aims to significantly enhance customer engagement and omnichannel capabilities.

Deploying Aptos One is in response to growing consumer demands for an overall better shopping experience, whether it is online, in a physical store or at a pop-up shop. Personalization and seamless experiences are key.

Aptos said the integration of Aptos One will seamlessly connect with Road Runner Sports’ existing Aptos SaaS applications, including Merchandising, Order Management System (OMS), Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Sales Audit. The company said this connectivity will enable highly personalized customer service, real-time inventory visibility and a unified experience across online and offline interactions.

San Diego-based Road Runner Sports is renowned for its diverse selection of athletic shoes, apparel and fitness devices. Their shoppers are fiercely loyal and expect a high level of personalization. The company’s commitment to inspiring active and healthy lifestyles is exemplified by its unique Fit Finder technology, which provides in-store and online customers with personalized shoe fittings, and its popular membership program, offering extended guarantees and exclusive benefits. 

“We’ve redefined the traditional shoe buying experience,” Tom Compogiannis, chief financial officer at Road Runner Sports, said in a statement. “Our interest in Aptos One stemmed from our continuous pursuit of elevating our customers’ journey.”

exterior of a Road Runner Sports store
credit: Arne Beruldsen/shutterstock.com

Beyond in-store enhancements, Compogiannis foresees significant opportunities for Aptos One to facilitate Road Runner Sports’ presence at external events such as pop-up shops, expos and gatherings.

“We want to interact with Road Runner Sports customers and potential customers wherever they are,” Compogiannis added. “As a cloud-native, mobile-first solution, Aptos One makes it easy to conduct selling activities just about anywhere.”

This capability allows store teams to engage with local communities, expanding customer acquisition and sales opportunities outside traditional store environments.”

Jeremy Grunzweig, general manager at Aptos, emphasized that Aptos One was developed in response to retailer feedback, combining robust enterprise-grade, omnichannel POS functionality with a mobile-first design.

For inquiries and tips related to “The Stack,” please reach out to [email protected]





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Dick’s Sporting Goods, Helmet Lab partner for a winning combination | Virginia Tech News

The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab’s research is on shelves of sporting goods stores across the United States. In collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods, the lab’s peer-reviewed and published STAR helmet rating system is now available in all the store’s retail locations. “At Dick’s Sporting Goods, we are all about the athlete. When they shop with […]

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The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab’s research is on shelves of sporting goods stores across the United States.

In collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods, the lab’s peer-reviewed and published STAR helmet rating system is now available in all the store’s retail locations.

“At Dick’s Sporting Goods, we are all about the athlete. When they shop with us in-store, online, or through our mobile app, we want to make sure we are providing them with the best possible experience and gear,” said Mark Daniels, Dick’s vice president of team sports and fitness merchandising. “Part of that is equipping them with the information they need to make their purchase decision. By using the Virginia Tech helmet ratings, we are able to do just that.”

Helmet Lab researchers calculate a helmet’s STAR, or Summation of Tests for the Analysis of Risk, score based on its performance in a series of impact tests. A higher score on a scale of one to five means the helmet offers better protection from concussions, with five stars being the best rating.

The ratings can now be found on Dick’s store signage, which includes information about the Helmet Lab and tips on how to find a properly fitting helmet. Helmets labeled with the Helmet Lab’s safety rating are available for purchase online and in store at all Dick’s Sporting Goods locations.

“Sports safety is extremely important, especially in a high-contact sport like football. We’ve used the Virginia Tech helmet ratings for over three years now and find our athletes respond really well to it,” Daniels said.





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Joseph Chalom Joins SharpLink as Co-CEO to Boost Innovation

In a surprising turn of events, Joseph Chalom, a digital asset veteran from BlackRock, has officially joined SharpLink Gaming Ltd. as Co-CEO. The news reported by Cointelegraph, is making waves in both the crypto and sports betting world. Chalom’s move is seen as a major win for SharpLink—and a signal that traditional finance leaders are […]

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In a surprising turn of events, Joseph Chalom, a digital asset veteran from BlackRock, has officially joined SharpLink Gaming Ltd. as Co-CEO. The news reported by Cointelegraph, is making waves in both the crypto and sports betting world. Chalom’s move is seen as a major win for SharpLink—and a signal that traditional finance leaders are now stepping into the tech and gaming space.

Who is Joseph Chalom?

If you’re not familiar with him, Joseph Chalom held a big role at BlackRock. He was in charge of building important partnerships for BlackRock’s digital finance team. Simply put, he helped the company connect with the right people in the crypto and tech world.

He worked with crypto and tech companies and helped BlackRock get started with things like Bitcoin and other digital money.

 Chalom was part of the team driving their move into crypto, tokenization, and other next-gen finance tools.

Now, he’s stepping away from Wall Street to lead a growing company in sports tech. That’s a bold move—and a very interesting one.

SharpLink is a company that helps sports fans feel more connected to the games they watch. They use smart tech to make it easier and more fun for fans to place bets if they choose to.

 SharpLink is more like a friendly guide. While you’re watching a match, it quietly shows you things like live stats, special offers, or betting options that match your interests. Nothing pushy—just smart suggestions at the right time.

In the background, SharpLink also helps sports websites and betting apps bring in more fans and keep them interested. So it makes the whole experience better for both fans and companies. With someone like Chalom on board, the company may be aiming for something much bigger.

A New Leadership Style

Chalom won’t be running the company alone. He’s joining Rob Phythian, the founder and current CEO, as part of a co-CEO model.

Rob will continue focusing on SharpLink’s products and operations. Chalom, on the other hand, will handle strategy, growth, and partnerships. It’s a smart move—bringing two skillsets together to push the company forward faster.

In a statement, Chalom said he’s excited to enter “a fast-moving space where tech, finance, and sports all meet.”

What This Could Mean

This move says a lot about where the industry is going. Big finance experts are no longer staying in their comfort zones. They’re entering gaming, sports, and entertainment tech.

It also raises some big questions. Could SharpLink explore blockchain betting, crypto rewards, or fan tokens in the future? With Chalom’s background in digital assets, the answer could be yes.

Final Thoughts

Joseph Chalom joining SharpLink isn’t just a new job—it’s a sign of change. The lines between finance, gaming, and technology are blurring. And this could be the start of a powerful new chapter for SharpLink and the industry as a whole.



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PGA Tour and USGA Tout Innovative Golf Content to Engage Fans

The PGA Tour and USGA are enhancing their social media engagement strategies, with both organizations launching innovative content formats. The PGA Tour introduced “Rapid Rounds,” showcasing swift highlights of tournament play, inspired by Augusta National’s earlier innovations. Concurrently, the USGA unveiled a social video that mirrors popular YouTube formats, capturing the thrilling moments of the […]

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The PGA Tour and USGA are enhancing their social media engagement strategies, with both organizations launching innovative content formats. The PGA Tour introduced “Rapid Rounds,” showcasing swift highlights of tournament play, inspired by Augusta National’s earlier innovations. Concurrently, the USGA unveiled a social video that mirrors popular YouTube formats, capturing the thrilling moments of the U.S. Junior Amateur. These initiatives aim to make golf content more accessible and engaging for casual fans, reflecting a growing recognition of the power of short-form media.

By the Numbers

  • The PGA Tour’s “Rapid Rounds” allows fans to view entire tournament rounds in a few minutes.
  • The USGA’s new video format captures highlights from the U.S. Junior Amateur, expanding its reach beyond traditional broadcasts.

State of Play

  • Both organizations are testing short-form content to engage audiences that prefer quick consumption of information.
  • Increased camera coverage and tech enhancements are enabling the PGA Tour to offer more dynamic content.

What’s Next

Expect both the PGA Tour and USGA to refine and expand their social media content strategies based on audience feedback and engagement metrics. As golf continues to embrace technology, more innovative formats could emerge to cater to evolving viewer preferences.

Bottom Line

The shift towards short-form content by the PGA Tour and USGA underscores the necessity of adapting to changing consumption habits, suggesting that golf can successfully modernize its appeal by embracing these innovative approaches.





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Innovations in Combat Sports Entertainment

Discover how Spinbara Casino Online is revolutionizing the combat sports experience with unique offerings that captivate enthusiasts and gamblers alike. In the dynamic world of combat sports, innovation is key to keeping fans engaged and excited. Spinbara Casino Online is at the forefront of this movement, integrating thrilling elements of combat sports into their gaming platform. This […]

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Discover how Spinbara Casino Online is revolutionizing the combat sports experience with unique offerings that captivate enthusiasts and gamblers alike.

In the dynamic world of combat sports, innovation is key to keeping fans engaged and excited. Spinbara Casino Online is at the forefront of this movement, integrating thrilling elements of combat sports into their gaming platform. This approach not only enhances the experience for sports enthusiasts but also attracts a broader audience eager to explore the adrenaline-pumping world of online casinos.

The Rise of Combat Sports-Themed Games

Spinbara Casino Online has tapped into the growing popularity of combat sports by developing themed games that resonate with fans. These games capture the essence of martial arts, boxing, and wrestling, providing players with an immersive experience that mirrors the intensity and excitement of live events. By incorporating realistic graphics and sound effects, Spinbara Casino Online ensures that players feel as though they are part of the action.



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Moreover, the casino’s focus on combat sports is not just about entertainment; it also offers educational insights into the sports themselves. Players can learn about different fighting styles, famous athletes, and historical matches, enriching their understanding and appreciation of the sport. This educational aspect sets Spinbara Casino Online apart from other platforms, as it combines gaming with learning in a seamless manner.

Engaging the Combat Sports Community

The platform has successfully engaged the combat sports community by offering exclusive promotions and events that cater specifically to this audience. These initiatives include virtual tournaments, live-streamed matches, and interactive betting opportunities that allow fans to participate in the action in real-time. By fostering a sense of community, it has created a loyal following among combat sports enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of gaming and sports entertainment.

Furthermore, the platform’s commitment to innovation is evident in its use of cutting-edge technology to enhance the user experience. From virtual reality simulations to augmented reality features, the platform continually pushes the boundaries of what is possible in online gaming. This dedication to technological advancement ensures that it remains a leader in the industry, offering unparalleled experiences for its users.

Future Trends in Combat Sports and Online Gaming

As the landscape of combat sports continues to evolve, the platform is poised to adapt and thrive. The integration of esports and traditional combat sports is one area where the platform sees significant potential for growth. By bridging the gap between these two worlds, it can attract a diverse audience that spans both gaming and sports fandoms.

Additionally, the platform is exploring new ways to incorporate social interaction into its offerings. Features such as live chat, community forums, and collaborative gameplay are being developed to enhance the social aspect of the gaming experience. This focus on community-building is expected to drive further engagement and loyalty among users, solidifying the platform’s position as a leader in the industry.

The platform is at the forefront of innovation in the realm of combat sports entertainment. By offering unique gaming experiences that captivate and educate, the platform continues to attract a wide audience of enthusiasts and gamblers alike. As technology and trends evolve, it remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible, ensuring its place as a pioneer in the world of online gaming.



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Meta to stop selling political ads in the EU, citing regulation – The Mercury News

By Kurt Wagner, Bloomberg Meta Platforms Inc. will stop selling political and issue-focused advertising in the European Union, citing new regulations that the company believes creates “an untenable level of complexity and legal uncertainty.” The Facebook and Instagram parent will disband its political advertising business in the EU beginning in early October, according to a […]

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By Kurt Wagner, Bloomberg

Meta Platforms Inc. will stop selling political and issue-focused advertising in the European Union, citing new regulations that the company believes creates “an untenable level of complexity and legal uncertainty.”

The Facebook and Instagram parent will disband its political advertising business in the EU beginning in early October, according to a blog post released Friday. The company cited new rules on transparency and targeting of political advertising, which take effect in October and limit the data that can be used to aim political messages at individuals.

Meta wrote in its blog post that it had “extensive engagement with policymakers” about this issue before the regulation was finalized, but the rules will “effectively remove popular products and services from the market, reducing choice and competition.” Alphabet Inc.’s Google also announced late last year that it will stop selling political ads in the EU.

The decision on political ads marks the latest in a series of conflicts between Meta and European regulators, who are working to rein in the power and data collection of big tech companies. EU regulators have challenged Meta’s plans to offer an ad-free version of its social networking services, and have fined the company almost €1 billion in the past 12 months. They also challenged Meta’s artificial intelligence features, leading the company to pause their rollout in the bloc, and earlier this month Meta said it won’t sign the code of practice for Europe’s new set of laws governing AI.



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FloSports pins down new AI tech

AUSTIN — MLS Commissioner Don Garber offered the public a rare bit of data regarding viewership of live matches under its media deal with Apple, stating that its Season Pass streams are “averaging 120,000 unique viewers per match” in 2025. Apple and MLS have largely declined to share viewership data since the launch of Season […]

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AUSTIN — MLS Commissioner Don Garber offered the public a rare bit of data regarding viewership of live matches under its media deal with Apple, stating that its Season Pass streams are “averaging 120,000 unique viewers per match” in 2025. Apple and MLS have largely declined to share viewership data since the launch of Season Pass in early 2023, making Garber’s comment one of the few data points released to date.

The commissioner said during his midseason press conference prior to Wednesday’s All-Star Game in Austin that the figure is up 50% year over year, which he attributed in part to new efforts to increase distribution of those matches outside the Apple TV ecosystem through partnerships with Comcast’s Xfinity cable service, DirecTV and EA Sports.

Garber didn’t define what qualifies as a “unique viewer,” and the metric doesn’t appear directly comparable to average-minute audience figures produced by Nielsen for more traditional linear sports telecasts. In fact, unique viewers (the number of people who watch some portion of the match) is likely much higher than the average minute audience (the average number of viewers watching during any given minute of the broadcast).

The ambiguity left industry observers on the ground in Austin wondering what to make of the morsel of data following years of secrecy from Apple and MLS on the subject. Garber pointed out in response to a follow-up question that unlike some other sports, MLS plays the bulk of its matches simultaneously on Saturday nights, with multiple matches starting hourly throughout the evening.

“We’re not putting on one or two games on a Saturday and then the next game on a Saturday or a handful of games regionally on a Sunday. Other leagues have a game of the week, or the game of the night, or Friday Night Baseball on Apple TV. All of our games, for the most part, are on Saturday, all up against each other,” Garber said. “So, when you have 120,000 unique viewers across that, that’s a lot of people. Aggregate all that, depending on what week it is, we’ve got over a million people that are unique viewers to a match.”

A source with knowledge of the number said the average viewership figure is being buoyed by the introduction of “Sunday Night Soccer,” a featured standalone match that receives additional promotional support from Apple.

It’s unclear why Garber deemed Wednesday the right time to provide a rare look behind the curtain at Season Pass viewership, but he said the public can expect more regular updates going forward.

“I know it’s frustrating for those who are looking for more information, but we and Apple believe we need to start sharing more information so that you all can start looking at it and what does it really mean,” Garber said. “So, it’s the beginning, it’s not the end, and we’ll continue to share more and more in the next press conference I have, which won’t be until MLS Cup [in December].”



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