There are several questions that constantly come up when we are having conversations with athletes and business owners like:

• What should a “deal” look like from both sides of the table?
• How should an athlete think about branding themselves?
• How are businesses utilizing their newfound ability to participate in NIL?

In this episode of AWM Capital’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) series, we are joined by Anthony Ranaudo. Anthony is a College World Series champion, 1st round draft pick, and former MLB player. Today, Anthony is the owner and founder of Cards and Culture, a store and social platform in the collectibles, art, memorabilia, and lifestyle business that is utilizing NIL deals to help promote his business and the athletes themselves. 

Anthony has a unique perspective as both a business owner utilizing NIL, and a former professional athlete who understands the brand building opportunities that come with being a high-profile athlete. 

In this episode, Anthony gives us an insight into what athletes should be thinking about in terms of building their brands through NIL opportunities. He and Will discuss the importance of building a network, understanding the marketplace, spotting the right deals, staying present and humble, and more.

Episode Highlights

• 1:50: Perspective on the evolution of NIL in the first year.
• 4:08: How Anthony is utilizing NIL for his business.
• 5:20: Ways for athletes to take advantage of the NIL opportunity.
• 7:40: General perception of NIL versus reality.
• 12:30:What roadblocks are currently present for businesses entering into the NIL space?
• 13:50:Business and athlete use of trademarks and logos.
• 15:45:How and why athletes build brands and networks as a college athlete.
• 21:35:Social media presence as a high school athlete.
• 25:20:What kind of deals should an athlete look to enter into?
• 28:25:The future of NIL and what the landscape will look like in the coming years.
• 31:25:The importance of educating yourself on how to best utilize NIL

If you have any questions or would like to reach out to Anthony or Will directly, please email them at:

Anthony Ranaudo – Kylie@cardsandculture.com

Will McGuffey – WMcGuffey@AWMCap.com