"Cut the discounts!" This bold advice from Professor Dominik Schreyer to football clubs selling season tickets stems from a simple truth: scientific evidence shows that discounts are not a significant motivator for season ticket holders. So, why continue to offer them?Since launching TicketingPodcast.com in March 2023, we've engaged with various experts in football and other spectator sports. Today’s episode, however, offers a fresh perspective. For the first time, we're discussing ticketing with an expert from outside the traditional field.Dominik Schreyer, Professor of Sports Economics at WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management in Düsseldorf, is known for changing the way people think about stadium economics. In this special Hot Topic episode, we delve into one of the sports industry's most pressing issues—no-show behavior among season ticket holders.Bringing years of academic research and real-world insights, Dominik challenges common misconceptions and illuminates the psychological and economic factors that influence fan attendance. He explores the impact of no-shows on stadium economics and introduces innovative strategies to reduce empty seats, offering a comprehensive analysis of the lesser-seen aspects of sports management.The episode also provides a historical overview of ticketing, from ancient Rome to modern football. Dominik shares intriguing findings from his research, including the effectiveness of various incentives designed to decrease no-show rates among season ticket holders. Listen to the discussion on innovative reminder strategies like moral persuasion and public acknowledgment and their surprising effects on attendance.To conclude, the conversation shifts to how clubs can enhance value for their most loyal fans. Dominik's expertise sheds new light on the commercialisation of football, emphasising the importance of creating experiences that extend beyond the stadium walls and captivate both new and existing fans.Join us for this thought-provoking exploration of sports ticketing dynamics that bridges theoretical insights with practical on-the-field action.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

The first point of contact between guests and an event is access control, where tickets are scanned. Yet, this crucial part of ticketing operations has not been thoroughly explored on TicketingPodcast.com—until now. In this episode, Jacqueline Purcell, a seasoned access control expert from Alvarado Mfg., delves into the intricacies of event access control.Drawing on her extensive experience managing ticket operations at high-profile events like Formula One and the Super Bowl, Jacqueline shares her insights on transforming chaotic crowds into orderly lines, ensuring each attendee's entrance is as thrilling as the event itself.Discover the technological revolution reshaping event entryways, from advanced turnstiles to biometric advancements, and how these innovations enhance both enjoyment and safety. We'll also discuss the adaptation to mobile ticketing systems and the unique challenges of managing international crowds.Jacqueline also shares her captivating career journey, which began at Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Resorts and led her through roles with Salt River Fields, Fleet Feet Scottsdale, Arizona Coyotes, Toronto Blue Jays, and TicketReturn. Now, as the Sales Manager for Sports & Entertainment at Alvarado, she leverages her sales and technical expertise across North America.Don’t miss this insightful look into the future of event access control and the seamless magic behind every swipe, scan, and smile at the gate.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

What’s life like day-to-day in the English Football League, how can we tackle season ticket no-shows, and what implications does the Football Governance Bill have for ticketing? These are just a few of the queries we're exploring in this TicketingPodcast.com episode with Sam Earle, Events Operations Manager at AFC Wimbledon.Formerly the Events and Ticketing Manager at Sutton United FC, Sam's outstanding work and his openness in sharing insights made AFC Wimbledon take notice, prompting his move from Gander Green Lane to the Cherry Red Records Stadium (affectionately known as Plough Lane to many). His willingness to share has also welcomed him into the virtual studio of TicketingPodcast.com as our 22nd guest.Discover how targeted communications and data-driven approaches can increase match day attendance, and why avoiding the discount trap can build long-term value for your audience. If you're intrigued by the behind-the-scenes action that shapes the sports industry, this episode is your ticket to understanding the strategies that score big with fans.Also: Find out why your real competitors in sports business might just be the next family barbecue and how networking, be it through LinkedIn or podcasts, can be a game-changer for industry professionals.Sam's distinctive perspectives on ticketing make for a fascinating conversation. In this episode, he divulges key takeaways:- Recognise every action's unintended consequence and manage them proactively. In ticketing initiatives, it’s about creating as many winners as possible while being mindful of the impact on all fans.- Commit to innovation and progress. Sam's ethos is not to emulate others blindly but to drive change and advance the dialogue in ticketing."Let's constantly try and move that conversation forward," Sam urges. "If we all innovate in our respective roles, collectively, we'll achieve greater strides."Join us for a thought-provoking 25 minutes of in-depth ticketing discourse.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

The iconic Principality Stadium in Wales, with its impressive 74,000 seating capacity, isn't just the heart of Welsh rugby. It is also the pulse of a vibrant events scene; hosting shows with superstars such as Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen. At the helm of this thrilling atmosphere is Daniel Cook, WRU’s Manager of Digital Ticketing & Customer Operations.In this TicketingPodcast.com episode, Daniel offers us a glimpse into the operational heartbeat of the Welsh Rugby Union and the array of spectacular events that light up the stadium. Attracting over 1.3 million visitors annually, Principality Stadium stands tall among Europe's elite not only in scale but also in popularity.The WRU, with an astounding 99.5% digital ticketing rate, has revolutionised event entry at the stadium—a story of transformation that Daniel unfolds in his talk with our host, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg, CEO of TicketCo.Daniel also unveils how the WRU manages seamless matchday operations with a lean team and how leveraging customer data enhances engagement before and during events, funnelling fans to the WRU app for a rich interactive experience.But it's not just about entering the gates—it's about being part of an evolving digital narrative that begins way before the event and resonates long after. Discover the strategic symphony of managing sold-out Six Nations rugby clashes and headline concerts as the Principality Stadium emerges as a pinnacle of modern, memorable experiences.Join us to delve into Daniel’s commitment to elevating live sports events, where digital innovation isn't just imminent—it's already reshaping our celebratory chants and the very way we experience the game.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

In our latest episode, we step into the world of music festivals, where the thrill of the front row meets the meticulous planning of crowd control.What can the sports event industry learn from the festival industry on this matter? Quite a lot, which is also one of the reasons why Morten Therkildsen, Director of Safety at the Roskilde Festival, is involved in both UEFA Champions League finals, Formula 1, Tour de France, and UEFA’s safe standing project, aside the massive Danish festival that gathers 135,000 attendees each summer.Roskilde was also the scene of the tragic Pearl Jam incident in 2000, when 9 people were killed as fans rushed the stage. Morten witnessed this tragedy first hand, as a volunteer back then, and this incident has ever since followed both him and his festival as a key learning point on crowd safety.In the heart of the festival buzz, Morten unravels the strategic changes to inner pit access—highlighting innovations like the wristband system that enhances security while honouring the fervour of die-hard fans. We delve into the psyche of crowds, examining how strategic entry protocols can merge the rush of excitement with the calm of order.Morten's rich insights, informed by his master's thesis and years of fieldwork, navigate the delicate balance of providing a safe space for the shared joy of festivals and sports events alike.Tune in for an enlightening deep dive into the intricate art and science of crowd management with a seasoned expert.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Season 4 of TicketingPodcast.com is here, and we're kickstarting the new season with a deep dive into men’s and women’s football at SK Brann—just in time for their women’s team's Champions League quarter-final matches against Barcelona on the 20th and 28th of March.With passionately dedicated fans, the largest attendance in Norway, and European success for both their men’s and women’s teams, SK Brann is ablaze at the start of their 2024 season. Norwegian football is enjoying a renaissance, with ticket sales soaring to new heights, and SK Brann experiencing a tangible FOMO effect among their supporters.Mads Liabø, the Marketing Manager at SK Brann, is at the forefront of this excitement, leading their marketing, ticket sales, and ticketing operations. In this episode of TicketingPodcast.com, he shares his insights on ticket sales strategies for season tickets and delves into the subtleties of marketing men’s versus women’s football matches.He also reveals what new ticketing features he hopes will materialise in the future and candidly discusses which features he believes should have never been implemented.Tune in for 25 minutes of great vibes and invaluable insights for anyone involved in the marketing or ticketing aspect of men’s or women’s football.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Join us for yet another thrilling season finale of TicketingPodcast.com, where we welcome back one of our guests from last season – Ticketing Systems Manager Nick Brennan of Warwickshire County Cricket Club – for a run-through from start to finish of all the seven previous episodes.Nick, a highly deserving finalist for the “Unsung Heroes” award at the 2024 Ticketing Business Awards, guides us through key moments and learnings from our esteemed guests this season: Jean-Marie Tardy, Peter Wynne, Brooke Arthur, Joe Foster, Steven Ferguson, Filippo Scanzano, and Michael Fraser.At TicketingPodcast.com, we’re dedicated to creating a platform for ticketing professionals to exchange wisdom and for enthusiasts to gain industry-leading insights. This season, we've broadened our horizons with two new formats - Live Specials and Hot Topic Specials - enriching your go-to ticketing knowledge hub.Join us for this 25-minute recap that distils the essence of our expansive and engaging season. Tune in and get inspired!TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Crowd safety must be a priority for every ticketing executive in sports and major events. It's a multifaceted issue that impacts customer experience, capacity management, brand reputation, legal compliance, risk management, emergency preparedness, and revenue protection. Indeed, the significance of each element is undeniable for those in the realm of ticketing.Ticketing isn't just an operational function; it's a strategic tool for enhancing crowd management and safety. In the latest Hot Topic Special episode of TicketingPodcast.com, Íse Murphy-Morris shares her expertise on this very subject.With a Master of Science degree in Crowd Safety and Risk Analysis from Manchester Metropolitan University, Íse’s credentials as a crowd security freelancer and Associate Lecturer in Crowd Safety at the University of Plymouth position her as an authority on event human behavior and crowd management strategies.This episode delves into the art and science of balancing risk management with creating unforgettable experiences, considering the ever-evolving dynamics of post-pandemic crowds. Discover how factors like seating layouts, bag policies, and water provisions can tip the scales from potential chaos to comfort for event-goers.More than a mere lesson in crowd control, this episode of TicketingPodcast.com offers a masterclass in designing events that harmonise safety with enjoyment—ensuring every attendee leaves with lasting, positive memories.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

How will Artificial Intelligence impact the future of ticketing? We explore this question in this Hot Topic Special episode of TicketingPodcast.com, featuring our guest, Michael Fraser.Michael brings nearly four years of direct marketing and ticketing experience from the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games Organizing Committee. He is currently the co-founder and AI evangelist at Action / Insights in Toronto, specialising in simplifying generative AI for non-technical leaders and executives.In this episode, Michael begins by explaining the key differences between machine learning and generative AI. He then discusses how AI has evolved from a tool used exclusively by experts to a technology everyone should understand and utilise.During the 2015 Pan American Games, Michael and his team were responsible for selling 1.3 million tickets - a monumental task, with or without AI. One of the questions explored in this episode is whether they would have approached this task differently had AI been available then. Michael warns, “It's not going to be easy and it's not going to feel like a vacation. It's going to feel like really grinding, grueling, hard work. Everyone's just been set up to think that AI is here to solve all their problems, and it can. It can help. It's still going to take so much of us. This is like when you learned to use a computer in the 90s. That's what's about to happen to you.”As Michael navigates the landscape of AI, it becomes evident that effective communication is our most powerful tool. By breaking down grand visions into manageable tasks, we can create a blueprint for AI that enhances decision-making and operational workflows. Michael's experience shows that defining goals and processes precisely can transform AI from a mere tool into a reliable ally, capable of tackling real-world challenges like boosting ticket sales through predictive modelling.AI's entry into the ticketing space is imminent, and we should be prepared. This episode will give you a head start.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

If you're involved in ticketing, you're probably familiar with the term dynamic pricing. But how does it actually work? And who is it for? In this episode of TicketingPodcast.com, we explore these questions with our guest, Filippo Scanzano from the German start-up Smart Pricer.Filippo Scanzano has a background in ticketing, starting his career as a Ticket Sales Assistant at the FIFA World Cup in Germany in 2006. He has then worked at the HQ of German branch of CTS Eventim in International Business Development and Data Science for almost nine years, before moving to the global sports marketing agency Infront. Today, his mission is to offer ticketing and price analytics, as well as dynamic pricing solutions, for the sports and entertainment industry.The San Francisco Giants were the first professional sports team to use dynamic pricing software, synchronising ticket prices with demand. While this approach is now common for services like hotel nights or plane tickets, it is still not the industry standard within sports or entertainment.Is this about to change? What are the benefits of dynamic pricing, and what are the pitfalls? This episode delves into these topics, marking the first time TicketingPodcast.com focuses on a specific subject like this.Prepare to learn about the art of real-time ticket pricing adjustments in response to fluctuating demand. We'll examine real-world success stories and cautionary tales, from the major leagues in the US to innovative Swiss ski resorts. Our conversation also highlights the perspectives of various stakeholders, from sales to finance, and the challenges they may face when implementing dynamic pricing models.We'll scrutinise the nuances of cultural readiness for dynamic pricing across industries, finding the right balance between financial gains and community values, and exploring the future of pricing strategies aided by advancements in AI.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

There is a significant disparity in stadium capacities between Scottish Premiership clubs like Celtic (60,000+) or Rangers (50,000+), and Ross County FC. With just over 6,500 seats at Victoria Park in Dingwall, Highland, Global Energy Stadium is the smallest stadium in the Scottish Premiership. Interestingly, the stadium has more seats than the population of the town!Since June 2020, ex-footballer Steven Ferguson has served as CEO at Ross County FC. He has had a remarkable journey within the club, starting as a player and progressing through various roles such as player development, academy director, and first team co-manager. Last year, he was awarded the SPFL's CEO of the year.In this episode of TicketingPodcast.com, Steven discusses the unique challenges of leading Ross County FC to excellence within the close-knit community of Dingwall. His story is not just about sports management but also about building a strong connection with fans and ensuring that the excitement of Premiership football resonates throughout the Highlands.During the episode, Steven reveals the intricacies of football club management and shares the strategic approaches and innovative improvements that have shaped Ross County FC under his leadership. The conversation also highlights the vibrant atmosphere at the Global Energy Stadium, and the importance of a great match day experience for everyone. Steven's hands-on involvement, particularly during high-profile games against rivals like Rangers and Celtic, exemplifies the dynamic and demanding nature of his role.In conclusion, we get a glimpse of Steven's match day experiences, comparing his time as a player to his current executive responsibilities. Moving away from superstitions to strategic thinking, Ferguson emphasises the importance of decision-making in complex situations, the power of a decisive yet adaptable approach, and the significance of setting clear and achievable goals for the club's staff.For those involved in football management or simply fans of the beautiful game, this episode offers an opportunity to learn from one of the industry's best and even reach out to Steven directly for an exchange of ideas and experiences.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Recorded live in front of an audience of football industry professionals at Croke Park in Dublin on January 13, 2024, here is Joe Foster, Ticketing Manager & European Competitions Coordinator at the Norwegian Premiership Champions FK Bodø/Glimt, sharing his insights on what to do when a small club with a tiny ticketing department faces ticket demand that exceeds its capacity tenfold.When Joe traded the bustling streets of London for Norway's serene landscapes, little did he know he'd become the linchpin in transforming Bodø/Glimt's ticketing strategies. In this Live Special of TicketingPodcast.com, we delve into the heart of fan engagement, dissecting the tactics that bind supporters to a club with the tenacity of a Northern winter.Ever wondered how a small football club skyrocketing to international fame manages the tsunami of ticket demands? Joe lets us in on the behind-the-scenes struggles and victories of Bodø/Glimt's ascent, offering a playbook for handling the surge in season ticket holders and the logistical acrobatics required for high-profile matches. It's a candid look at the bumps and triumphs on the road to success, a tale that's as much about managing expectations as it is about selling seats.This episode is also a valuable resource for other football clubs, especially ticketing managers, looking for innovative ideas to engage fans. Be sure not to miss Joe's Halloween Special story - a concept that can be easily borrowed with great success by others.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

She has done 2 Olympic games, 2 FIFA World Cups and lots of other big events, and she is still only at the start of her career. Say hello to Canadian and Australian ticketing superstar Brooke Arthur.From cutting her teeth as an intern at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, Qatar, to spearheading ticketing at the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, and scaling the grand heights of FIFA Women's World Cups, Brooke Arthur's experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.The charm of her story lies not just in her career's upward trajectory, but in the day-to-day challenges, the critical lessons absorbed, and the adrenaline-charged rewards of a career in ticketing that she candidly shares with us. Brooke's insight into the stark contrasts between the 2015 and 2023 Women's World Cups, coupled with her commitment to knowledge sharing and paying it forward, make for truly absorbing listening. We also get a peek at her impressive career path, a journey marked by hard work, dedication, and a dash of good luck.In this compelling episode on TicketingPodcast.com, Brooke's passion for ticketing resonates as she reflects on her dynamic career, emphasising the joy of crafting unforgettable experiences for event attendees. Don't miss out on this thrilling ticketing talk!The interview was recorded on 16 November 2023.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

When Peter Wynne visited TicketingPodcast.com at the start of 2023, Wrexham AFC were fighting for promotion from the National League and into the English Football League (EFL). Eight months later the club is well established in the EFL, and Wrexham's head of tickets and memberships is busier than ever. Despite this, he generously accepted the invitation to visit Vienna 19 October for the very first Live Special of the podcast in front of a live audience at the FBIN Conference.In this Live Special, Peter shares insights into how Wrexham AFC's recent success has spiked even more international exposure and fan engagement than last season. He also unveils how the heartwarming mission of co-chairmen Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds has a positive impact on the wider Wrexham community, and explain the thoughts behind the club's Racecourse Live scheme that generously donates match tickets to charities, food banks, and ethnic minority groups. It's a touching testament to the club's deep-rooted community spirit.Tune in and join us on this inspiring journey into the heart of football.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

TicketingPodcast.com is back with a brand-new season, and we're kicking things off with an incredible guest. Meet Jean-Marie Tardy, the Ticketing Project Manager at FIFA, as he joins our host, Carl-Erik Moberg, to explore FIFA's unique ticketing operations.Ticketing at FIFA is a highly specialised and unique aspect of the organisation's operations, and one of the defining factors is the immense scale of the organisation and the events they organise. FIFA's ticketing is unlike any other - it operates on a global scale, reaching audiences from every corner of the world. As a result, the ticketing process requires a start-up approach, allowing for experimentation and continuous improvement. In the world of FIFA, there's no room for improvisation. Precision and meticulous planning are key when communicating with the public and preparing for various scenarios. Jean-Marie, with his vast experience and entrepreneurial spirit, offers an exclusive glimpse into the exciting world of FIFA tournament ticketing. With a unique path into the industry, he reveals fascinating insights into the composition of the ticketing team, their hiring approach, and the art of selling not just tickets but dreams.We also address the ever-growing sphere of women's football and its place in FIFA tournaments. Hear from Jean-Marie as he shares FIFA's strategic plans to elevate women's football and the tremendous strides that have been made in this area. From breaking attendance records to capturing the world's attention, the attraction of women's sport is undeniable. We also explore the meticulous planning and execution leading up to the Under 17 Women's World Cup in India.Lastly, we shed light on the complexities around World Cup ticket distribution and fan engagement. Jean-Marie gives listeners an inside look at the ticketing process, from predicting sales phases to ensuring fair access for all fans. Get to understand how data plays a crucial part in ticket allotment and witness the joy of fans experiencing the thrill of the matches through his anecdotes. If you've ever dreamed of venturing into the ticketing industry, you won't want to miss Jean-Marie's valuable advice shared in this episode. Tune in and be a part of this exhilarating journey through the world of FIFA tournament ticketing!TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Join us for the thrilling finale of TicketingPodcast.com's second season, where we've assembled the brightest minds in the industry: Nicholas Brennan, Martin Goossens, Samuel Boyden, Manal Smith, and Rick Jurkiewicz.Now, brace yourself for an exhilarating episode as we welcome back the insightful Paul Williamson, Director at Two Circles, to recap and explore the most captivating moments from this extraordinary season.In Season 2, we've ventured into the realms of cricket, football, netball, rugby, golf, and sailing, even touching upon the world of live music events. From technology's transformative impact to unlocking the potential of customer data, enhancing experiences, exploring subscription models, and fortifying security measures, we've left no stone unturned.Whether you're a loyal listener or a newcomer, Paul's profound understanding of ticketing breathes new life into every aspect we've covered.Don't worry if you missed a few episodes; this one promises to captivate and engage you thoroughly.Get ready for an immersive journey into the digital transformation of ticketing, the dynamic power of collaboration among ticketing managers, and the exciting career opportunities that await in this industry.Recorded on 26 June 2023, this episode is not to be missed!TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

You're in for an absolute treat in this bonus episode of TicketingPodcast.com as we sit down with Rick Jurkiewicz - Head of Ticketing at the Rugby Football League - to discuss how he ended up just here. Rick's tale is a captivating one, chronicling his journey from the music scene of Nottingham to the sports arenas of Manchester, providing unique insights into how the ticketing game changes from concert hall to sports field. Along the way, he spills the beans on the intricacies of this ever-evolving industry, with anecdotes from his time at the iconic Wembley Stadium, and a rather amusing fan encounter thrown in!As we continue our heart-to-heart with Rick, he offers his insider's perspective on the ticketing industry – a world rife with opportunities and challenges. From touring with the likes of Coldplay and Metallica to running ticketing for an entire sports league, Rick’s career path is nothing short of extraordinary. He wholeheartedly shares the lessons he learned, the hurdles he overcame, and the rewards he reaped; painting a vivid picture of the commitment and responsibility it takes to succeed in this field. All in all, this episode promises to be a deep dive into the enigmatic world of ticketing, offering a blend of personal narratives, professional wisdom, and a sincere appreciation for the realm we often take for granted.The episode was recorded on 20 June 2023.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

"Plan for the absolute worst case scenario. Always. Something will always go wrong. You need to be ready for it every time."If you jump straight to the end of this TicketingPodcast.com season 2 episode with Rick Jurkiewicz - Head of Ticketing at the Rugby Football League - that is the advice you'll get. Listen carefully, but please also lend an ear to everything else that's on Rick's mind, because that's quite a lot, and it's highly engaging all the way through.Rick's career within ticketing started 25 years back, and it can roughly be divided into two separate parts. First it was rock'n roll, then sports. He started his career at See Tickets and then moved on to Ticketmaster, and in the rock'n roll part of his career he did massive events like Glastonbury and Robbie Williams in Knebworth Park.The shift to sports came with the UEFA Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine and the London 2012 Olympics, followed by the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. Since 2016 he's been Head of Ticketing at the Rugby Football League. Along the way, he's learned how to be a master risk preparer, especially in high-stakes situations where tickets have to be printed manually when time is of the essence.In this episode, we tackle the fascinating concept of audience segmentation. Rick breaks down how ticketing managers slice and dice databases into profile audiences, ultimately using this data to better fulfil their customers' needs. He also walks us through the contrasting realities of ticketing for sports events versus theatre, emphasising the crucial role of capturing unique audience profiles in each sphere. Last but not least, join us as we envision the future of ticketing and fan engagement. Imagine a time when live events can rival the atmosphere and experience of watching a televised event, perhaps through the magic of augmented reality. Rick also shares valuable insights on the challenges in governance and integration, and lays out his golden rules for ticketing managers. This episode is a goldmine of insights and strategies for anyone drawn to the event industry, so be sure to listen in!The episode was recorded on 20 June 2023.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Some choose the safe path, others a more daring one. Manal Smith is of the last category. Her ticketing career started at the London 2012 Olympics, and since then she has taken on huge challenges at both AXS, GP World Tour, and The Hundred before she recently was appointed Head of Ticketing at SailGP.In this bonus episode of TicketingPodcast.com, Manal transports us back to when she got her first taste of the ticketing world, followed by her swift transition into the heart of ticketing operations.With a dash of humour, Manal shares intriguing anecdotes about the extremes people will go to secure tickets, and her secret hacks to securing tickets for sell-out events. We uncover the magic woven by Manal into the end-to-end customer journey that begins with a ticket purchase. She shares her invaluable insights into ticketing strategy, pricing, and system building. The episode was recorded on 24 May 2023.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.

Have the world ever experienced a success story similar to the England and Wales Cricket Board's tournament The Hundred? Probably not.The Hundred is a professional franchise 100-ball cricket tournament involving eight men's and eight women's teams located in major cities across England and Wales. The tournament is run by the England and Wales Cricket Board and took place for the first time in July and August 2021. In record time this cricket tournament has risen from nothing to a ticket volume of more than half a million each year, massive merchandise sales and packed stands with an audience where the majority probably never had visited a cricket match before The Hundred was launched two years ago.From the start an up until June 2023, Manal Smith was Head of Ticketing at The Hundred. She started her ticketing career at the London 2012 Olympics and progressed from there to AXS Europe before she took the position as Ticketing Manager at the European Tour of DP World Tour. She then left this position in favour of The Hundred in September 2019, where she first had to handle a cancelled season due to the pandemic before she successfully delivered two seasons and laid the foundation for this year's equally successful tournament. She then set sail for yet another exciting challenge in June this year, as she left The Hundred in favour of the position as Head of Ticketing for SailGP.In this episode of TicketingPodcast.com, Manal paints a vivid picture of how ticketing impacts every department in an organisation and the meticulous planning required for event day delivery. Hold on tight as we explore the digital transformation in sports and event ticketing, from the physical to the digital realm. Manal shares the unique challenges of launching a new ticketing system in the UK and her subsequent role as ticketing manager for DP World Tour. Her experiences with giant clients like the O2, Wembley, and the ATP tennis championships offer a unique perspective on the transition to digital tickets. In the final leg of the interview, we delve into the success of The Hundred and the critical role of local activations in its success. Manal enlightens us on the power of social media and importance of collaborations when organising matches and marketing. We wrap up with a sneak peek into Manal's new role at Sale GP, their upcoming races, and what it means to create loyalty for a brand new brand. This episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in ticketing, sports management, or the business side of sports, so buckle up for a roller-coaster ride into the thrilling world of ticketing with Manal Smith.The episode was recorded on 24 May 2023.TicketingPodcast.com is powered and sponsored by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg.