Episode 8 - Host Matt Farrell talks with Rachel Axon, the Olympics reporter for Sports Business Journal to discuss her role in covering the business of Olympic sports. She talks about the challenges of covering the Olympics, including the broad stakeholder base and the need to explain the unique aspects of the Olympic world to readers. Axon also discusses the trends in Olympic coverage, such as the downsizing of media organizations and the focus on non-competition issues. She shares her career journey and key mentors, as well as the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming Paris Olympics.

00:00 Role at SBJ
03:17 Covering the Business of Olympic Sports
05:41 Trends in Olympic Coverage
09:19 LA28 as a Game Changer
12:40 Controversies and Issues in Olympic Games
15:19 About Rachel's Career
18:28 Key Career Mentors and Pivot Points
20:18 Is There Anything I Didn't Ask That I Should?
21:28 Anticipation for the Paris Olympics
21:52 Podcast Intro.MP4

Takeaways

- Covering the Olympics requires an understanding of the broad stakeholder base and the unique aspects of the Olympic world.
- Media organizations have downsized their Olympic coverage, leading to fewer dedicated Olympic reporters.
- There is a focus on non-competition issues in Olympic coverage, such as governance, finances, and host city controversies.
- Axon's career in sports journalism was fueled by her passion for sports and her early experiences covering high school football.
- The upcoming Paris Olympics are seen as a pivot point for the Olympic movement, with anticipation for a more positive and exciting event.

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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