Ep. 5 - “Stories in Data”
with Rich Cooper - AFC Bournemouth
Summary
In this conversation, Michael Pruchniewski and Rich discuss the intersection of data and sports, particularly focusing on AFC Bournemouth. Rich shares his unique career journey from financial services to sports, emphasizing the importance of values alignment and the agility required in the sports business. They explore how data is used to drive business decisions at AFC Bournemouth, the significance of understanding fan engagement, and the human stories that emerge from data analysis. The discussion also touches on the future of data in sports, including the role of AI and the necessity of maintaining a human element in data interpretation.
Top Insights
Embrace Opportunities - Rich emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise and connecting with people to do things you enjoy, even without a set end goal.
Timing and Persistence - Michael highlights the unpredictability of timing and the need to keep trying, as most outreach efforts may not receive a response, but persistence can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Career Path Flexibility - Rich shares his "squiggly career" journey, illustrating how a lack of strict planning can lead to diverse experiences and opportunities, such as transitioning from financial services to sports.
Data's Role in Business Decisions - The discussion underscores how AFC Bournemouth leverages data to drive business decisions, reflecting the growing trend of sports clubs being run like businesses.
Cultural Adaptation and Innovation - Rich discusses the slow adoption of new ideas in Bournemouth, such as introducing rally towels, and how these innovations can eventually be embraced by the community.
Human Stories in Data - Rich shares a personal story about discovering a fan from Chile through data, highlighting the human stories that can emerge from data analysis.
The Power of Curiosity - Both speakers agree on the importance of curiosity in working with data, as it drives the discovery of new insights and stories.
Balancing Technology and Human Judgment - Rich and Michael discuss the role of AI in data analysis, emphasizing that while AI can automate tasks, human judgment remains crucial in interpreting data and making decisions.
Chapters
00:00 Match Day Vibes and Personal Connections
04:53 Career Journeys: From Finance to Football
09:24 Finding Passion and Values in Work
14:14 The Importance of Experimentation in Data
19:06 Agility in Data Management at AFC Bournemouth
22:56 Balancing Speed and Supporter Engagement
23:21 Understanding Fan Engagement and Adoption
27:33 The Role of Data in Sports Management
31:14 Human Stories Behind the Data
35:44 Future of Data and AI in Sports
38:27 "Behind the Data"