Painless Podcast

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 18 Will Leitch, MLB.com, New York Magazine and much more Deon and Eric go to the post with Will Leitch, prolific author and columnist for MLB.com, New York Magazine, and many more. We learn how Will started Deadspin, why he left, and how his roots growing up in Central Illinois and attending the University of Illinois helped shape his writing interests. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we also hear music from Marty Casey’s debut solo album, “The Ground You Walk On,” available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network to activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 53: FK Day (Co-Founder SRAM & World Bicycle Relief) Carey Pinkowski (Exec. Race Director, Bank of America Chicago Marathon) Hear from two of the best in their fields – FK Day and Carey Pinkowski. FK helped launch SRAM, now the global leader in high-end bike components, surviving multiple failures. In Dec 2004 on holiday he was struck with the need for access to simple transportation in developing countries. But he didn’t want to just throw money at the problem. Nor did he want to just throw bikes at the problem either. Carey Pinkowski was charged with saving the Chicago Marathon in the early 1990’s. By always listening, asking questions, being out in the community with a simple goal of improving every day, he gained the trust of runners and city officials alike to springboard the Marathon to one of the world’s best race day experiences. Both FK and Carey share stories of how they listen to their consumers and empower them to make their own lives better. Upcoming WBR Event Info: Learn more and register here: https://worldbicyclerelief.org/en/event/2018-africa-in-motion-chicago/. WBR also could use a few more volunteers at the event. If interested, email info@worldbicyclerelief.org. Africa in Motion – Chicago • Date: Thursday, November 8 • Time: VIP Party 5:30pm – 6:30pm, Evening of Impact 6:30pm – 9:30pm • Location: 1328 W. Randolph St. – West Loop View an amazing video about the work WBR does here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXQQiFRhFYg Connect with WBR here: • worldbicyclerelief.org • Facebook: www.facebook.com/worldbicyclerelief • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-bicycle-relief • Twitter: @PowerOfBicycles (SRAM is @SRAMRoad) • Instagram: @worldbicyclerelief Connect with the Bank of America Chicago Marathon here: • chicagomarathon.com • Facebook: www.facebook.com/chicagomarathon • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-event-management/ • Twitter & Instagram: @ChiMarathon ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that allows access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 17 Dee Brown, Illini Basketball Legend The “Human Fast Break” on the 2005 Fighting Illini Final Four Team…Dee Brown was Illinois’ Mr. Basketball and McDonald’s All American his senior year at Proviso East HS. Then, in that magical 2005 season, he was a consensus All-American who earned the Sporting News National Player of the Year award. Dee jumps on the FadeAway to share his thoughts on what’s most important to him in basketball. He also tells Deon and Eric about how many of those key players wound up together, what he learned by playing professionally, and what he’s currently up to. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we also hear music from Marty Casey’s debut solo album, “The Ground You Walk On,” available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network to activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 16 Dana Howard, 2018 HOF Inductee - College Football & Fighting Illini, 1994 Butkus Award Winner As the Dean of “Linebacker U”, former Illini Dana Howard still holds the Big Ten record for tackles. Howard still has the swagger of the NFL player he became, and jumps on the FadeAway to talk about today’s Fighting Illini team, his thoughts on being inducted into two Halls of Fame this year and shares some stories about his time on campus. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we also hear from Marty Casey’s debut solo album, “The Ground You Walk On,” available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network to activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 15 Leron Black, Fighting Illini Basketball 2017-18 All-Big Ten Leron Black lead the Fighting Illini basketball team in scoring during the 2017-18 season and was named Homorable Mention All-Big Ten (coaches and media). But this past spring, with a year of eligibility left but a degree already in hand, Leron made the decision to turn pro. Deon and Eric talk to Leron about how he came to that decision, what he’s looking forward to -- and scared of -- heading to Israel for the next stop on his basketball journey, and how he feels he matured over his time in Champaign. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we also hear from Marty Casey’s debut solo album, “The Ground You Walk On,” available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network to activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 52: Julia Millon (Program Coordinator, Principal Gifts, Northwestern University) Jane Obringer (Manager, Partnership Solutions, Learfield) Meet Jane and Julia, two recent Northwestern Masters in Sports Administration students who give us a perspective on why they chose a sports-focused masters, how they chose Northwestern and how they juggle full-time jobs, classes, volunteering and other ways of giving back. This is conversation 4 of 4 from the Northwestern University Masters in Sports Administration’s “Facilities of the Future Symposium.” Special thanks to Jane, Julia and Doug Bakker for all their help making these episodes happen. Connect with the NU MSA program here: • https://sps.northwestern.edu/masters/sports-administration/ • Twitter = @NUSportsBiz To connect with Julia: • Email: julia.millon@northwestern.edu • Twitter: @juliamillon14 • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-millon14/ To connect with Jane: • Email: jobringer@learfield.com • Twitter: @janiepie35 • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeobringer/ ***** GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 5 PAINLESS EVENT! https://worldbicyclerelief.org/en/event/entrepreneurs-creating-impact-networking-purpose/ Tickets are just $20 and include snacks and beverages. ALL proceeds benefit World Bicycle Relief. ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that allows access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 14 Monica Abbott, 2020 US Olympic Softball Team Arguably the most decorated softball player ever, Monica Abbott just added another accomplishment to her impressive resume. She and her Team USA teammates recently won a thrilling World Championship game against Japan, thus securing a spot in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It’s noteworthy because it marks the return of softball to the Olympics since the sport’s last appearance in 2008. Monica joins Deon and Eric to discuss her role in women’s sports, how she approaches her work and having the “Million Dollar Arm.” The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week”, and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we also hear from Marty Casey’s debut solo album, “The Ground You Walk On,” available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network to activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 51: Andy Totten (Director, Sports Americas, AECOM) Meet Andy Totten, VP, McHugh Construction and hear how this “recovering architect,” put his love for sports, knowledge of design and passion for driving and organizing the many moving parts of stadium construction and renovation. Managing $100-120 million in projects at any one time, we’ll hear about how he’s been a driving force on work at the United Center, Advocate Center, MB Arena, Guaranteed Rate Field and now Navy Pier. A key is “future proofing” buildings to accommodate constantly evolving technology, equipment and fan engagement trends. This is conversation three of four from the Northwestern Masters in Sports Administration’s Facilities of the Future Symposium. Special thanks to Doug Bakker, Jane Obringer and Julia Millon for all their help making these episodes happen. Connect with the NU MSA program here: • https://sps.northwestern.edu/masters/sports-administration/ • Twitter = @NUSportsBiz To connect with Andy: • Find his bio and email link at www.McHughConstruction.com and shoot him a note ***** GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 5 PAINLESS EVENT! https://worldbicyclerelief.org/en/event/entrepreneurs-creating-impact-networking-purpose/ Tickets are just $20 and include snacks and beverages. ALL proceeds benefit World Bicycle Relief. ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 50: Jon Niemuth (Director, Sports Americas, AECOM) Connect with Jon Niemuth who leads AECOM’s sports facility efforts across North and South America. Hear how a failure on the tennis court at 13 has helped shape, motivate and inform his work world every day. Today, he always looks to “own the moment” and not have regrets, not get emotional and not get nervous. He shares tips on how he's gone about doing that. He also has advice for folks looking to find their passion and gain not just mentors, but someone who believes in you and inspires you to keep reaching. This is the second of four excellent conversations held at the Northwestern Masters in Sports Administration’s Facilities of the Future Symposium. Special thanks to Doug Bakker, Jane Obringer and Julia Millon for all their help making these episodes happen. Connect with the NU MSA program here: • https://sps.northwestern.edu/masters/sports-administration/ • Twitter = @NUSportsBiz To connect with Jon: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonniemuth/ • Email = Jon.Niemuth@aecom.com • Twitter = @jonniemuth ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 49: Solly Fulp (EVP, Learfield Campus+) Meet Solly Fulp who leads Learfield’s Campus+ division. The former University of Oregon wrestler was previously a successful college athletics and university administration marketer, first at Sacramento State, then Cal. He joined Learfield early in 2017 to oversee a unit assisting 130 colleges and universities in their partnership efforts with brands, not just in athletics, but in deeper engagements and true partnerships across the entire campus. Hear how his path evolved and how he works to be a connector every day. He also shares tips for folks looking to find their passion and gain mentors. This is one of four excellent conversations held at the Northwestern Masters in Sports Administration’s Facilities of the Future Symposium. Special thanks to Doug Bakker, Jane Obringer and Julia Millon for all their help making these episodes happen. Connect with the NU MSA program here: • https://sps.northwestern.edu/masters/sports-administration/ • Twitter = @NUSportsBiz To connect with Sully: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/sollyfulp/ • Email = SFulp@learfield.com • Twitter = @SollyFulp ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 48: Julie Haferkamp (President, WISE Chicago / Sr. Director, Mosaic) Amy Potter (Chair & President Emeritus, WISE Chicago / Head of US Sponsorship, BMO Harris Bank) Part 2 of an excellent conversation. If nothing else, “Be a good human.” To connect with Julie: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliehaferkamp/ • Email = julie.haferkamp@mosaic.com • Twitter = @rocknjewels To connect with Amy: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-potter-9616b51/ • Twitter = @amypotter00 To connect with WISE Chicago: https://www.facebook.com/WISEChicago/ WISE National: http://www.wiseworks.org ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Chicago Sport & Social Clubs – CSSC has another offer for Painless members: Volleywood is BACK! The biggest beach volleyball tournament paired with Summer’s best one-day music festival returns Saturday, July 14th to North Avenue Beach. This hybrid tournament-festival features the best DJs, delicious food and stocked bars, tons of volleyball and the incredible Chicago Skyline and lakefront as your backdrop. This year’s headliners include Matoma and Thomas Jack. This full day event is sure to deliver good vibes and VIP lounges with full amenities. Use code ‘CHICAGO5’ to get $5.00 off GA or VIP tickets at volleywoodchicago.com. + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 47: Amy Potter (Chair & President Emeritus, WISE Chicago / Head of US Sponsorship, BMO Harris Bank) Julie Haferkamp (President, WISE Chicago / Sr. Director, Mosaic) One credits Chuck E Cheese for teaching her many of her client service skills – and then admits a “thing” for mascots. The other was convinced her attempt to explain how she was well-organized, yet flexible, that went terribly wrong, totally torpedoed her chance at a dream job. Both turned out much better than “just fine.” Amy and Julie are truly outstanding people. Hear more how they have earned their success and terrific reputations. To connect with Amy: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-potter-9616b51/ • Twitter = @amypotter00 To connect with Julie: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliehaferkamp/ • Email = julie.haferkamp@mosaic.com • Twitter = @rocknjewels Connect with WISE Chicago here: https://www.facebook.com/WISEChicago/ Or WISE National here: http://www.wiseworks.org ***** Please support our partners: + Chicago Sport & Social Clubs – CSSC has another offer for Painless members: Volleywood is BACK! The biggest beach volleyball tournament paired with Summer’s best one-day music festival returns Saturday, July 14th to North Avenue Beach. This hybrid tournament-festival features the best DJs, delicious food and stocked bars, tons of volleyball and the incredible Chicago Skyline and lakefront as your backdrop. This year’s headliners include Matoma and Thomas Jack. This full day event is sure to deliver good vibes and VIP lounges with full amenities. Use code ‘CHICAGO5’ to get $5.00 off GA or VIP tickets at volleywoodchicago.com. + Monroestar - If you have website strategy, design or building needs, talk to Vinay and Dave at monroestar. They concepted, designed and built our terrific Painless.Network website. Head to monroestar.com to check out all their work. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network

Painless Podcast episode 46: Sean Callahan (VP, Jack Morton) (Some of) The ingredients used to create the unique Sean Callahan: Music. Family. Doodling. Cardinals baseball. Creativity. Phish. First-hand experiences. Relationship building. Using drum circles for pitches. Start-ups. Transparency. Thom Yorke. Adaptability. No judgments. Hear it all come together on Painless Podcast Episode 46. Check out Sean’s terrific “What Marketers Can Learn From Phish” post using this link: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-marketers-can-learn-from-phish-sean-callahan/ To connect with Sean: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/seancallahanwi/ • Twitter = @seancalchi ***** Sign up for your no cost Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter here: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Chicago Sport & Social Club offers the largest sports leagues at locations all over the city. It's not just competition, it's camaraderie. Last chance to avoid FOMO -- registration for Summer sports ASAP. Use code ‘PAINLESS’ to receive up to $75 off your fee. Code is good for a 5% discount off team registration. Register at www.chicagosocial.com. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 13 Dan Harleb, University of Illinois, Head Baseball Coach One of the most successful Illini sports programs over the past several years is the baseball team. Deon and Eric step into the box with Head Coach Dan Hartleb to talk about this year’s team and how Coach Hartleb found his way to the University of Illinois. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week”, and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi In this episode, we hear more of Marty Casey’s debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On. It’s available now on iTunes at www.smareturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more. Activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected with 600+ sports and event marketing pros TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 45: A "Micro Pod" with simple updates RSVP for our event TOMORROW (Thurs, April 19, 6-8p) with WISE Chicago and the USGA! Read about it, plus Painless discounts and 50+ jobs and internships in the latest Painless Email Blast here: https://mailchi.mp/painless/lastcall-april-19-wise-usga-intersport ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: + Chicago Sport & Social Club offers the largest sports leagues at locations all over the city. It's not just competition, it's camaraderie. Registration for Spring & Summer is now open. Use code ‘PAINLESS’ to receive up to $75 off your fee. Code is good for a 5% discount off team registration. Register at www.chicagosocial.com. +Chicago Beer Classic returns to Soldier Field, Sat, May 5. Receive $10 (good towards GA or VIP tickets!) either tasting session on the Chicago Beer Classic website: http://chicagobeerclassic.com Just use our promo code: PAINLESS! ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 44: Chris Hastings (President/Partner, Chicago Sport & Social Club) Chris planned to be NBA or NFL commissioner, and life took a different turn. He actually technically oversees dozens of leagues now and 130,000 participants, but it’s in the recreation space instead. How did this one-time Division III “possession receiver” carve this different path? What are his recommendations for others looking to break in or find their way? Is he sure he doesn’t want to be a pig farmer? Hear it all on Painless Podcast Episode 44. To connect with Chicago Sport & Social: • Web = www.chicagosocial.com (Jobs page: http://www.chicagosocial.com/about/employment ) • Grab A Game = http://grabagame.com • Twitter = @ChiSportSocial • FB = @ChicagoSocial • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-sport-and-social-club/ To connect with Chris: • LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hastings-3450579/ ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network NEXT EVENT: April 19, 6-8p with WISE and the USGA. ***** Please support our partners: +2018 IEG Sponsorship Conference. Coming to Chicago April 8-11, this is THE. SPONSORSHIP. INDUSTRY. EVENT. Painless members receive TWENTY PERCENT OFF admission. Save up to $450 when you head to www.IEG2018.com and use our special code: IEG2018PN. + Chicago Sport & Social Club offers the largest sports leagues at locations all over the city. It's not just competition, it's camaraderie. Registration for Spring & Summer is now open. Use code ‘PAINLESS’ to receive up to $75 off your fee. Code is good for a 5% discount off team registration. Register at www.chicagosocial.com. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 43: Dave Knickerbocker (Founder, Banner Collective) Dave shares how he made his sports job break happen in minor league baseball, his "harassment" of the Cubs' John McDonough with constant phone calls -- and handwritten thank you notes! -- that earned him a promotion to the major leagues, a huge step up at the Blackhawks and most recently, co-founding a now thriving production agency. Did I mention he plotted Banner while working at the Hawks? With the help of Hawks' ownership? Check out this terrific open and honest chat with Dave Knickerbocker. To connect with Banner Collective: +Web = https://www.bannercollective.com (Jobs page: https://www.bannercollective.com/careers/) +Twitter = @BannerVideo +FB + Insta = @BannerCollective +Email inquiries = hello@bannercollective.com +LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/company/banner-collective/ To connect with Dave: +Twitter = @DKnickerbocker +LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-knickerbocker-75811741/ ***** PAINLESS EVENT THIS WEEK! Thurs, Mar 15, is our annual Tourney Watch and St. Paddy's Weekend Warm-up at Joe's on Weed (940 W. Weed St., Chicago) from 430-830p. More info here: https://painless.network/event/annual-painless-march-madness-event/ ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: +Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle: Shuffle on, Chicago! Take part in the city's best running celebration and shuffle with us through the streets of downtown Chicago on Sunday, March 25. Sign up using the code PAINLESS to secure your spot in the race for $40. Direct link for registration: http://haku.ly/06c79e +2018 IEG Sponsorship Conference. Coming to Chicago April 8-11, this is THE. SPONSORSHIP. INDUSTRY. EVENT. Painless members receive TWENTY PERCENT OFF admission. Save up to $450 when you head to www.IEG2018.com and use our special code: IEG2018PN. + Chicago Sport & Social Club offers the largest sports leagues at locations all over the city. It's not just competition, it's camaraderie. Registration for Spring & Summer is now open. Use code 'PAINLESS' to receive up to $75 off your fee. Code is good for a 5% discount off team registration. Register at www.chicagosocial.com. ********** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork *****

Painless Podcast episode 42: LIVE at ISBC with Joe Ronovsky & Anthony Krzyzak (Chicago White Sox & Chicago Wolves) Hear from two University of Illinois grads (Joe in 2008 and Anthony in 2010) on how they discovered they wanted to work in sports, how they each got their starts and how they work their way up tapping mentors and growing their networks. Currently, Joe Ronovksy is Manager of Corporate Sales for the Chicago White Sox and Anthony Krzyak is Sales Development Manager at the Chicago Wolves. To connect with Anthony & Joe: * LinkedIn - Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonykrzyzak/ * LinkedIn - Joe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeronovsky/ * Twitter - Joe: https://www.twitter.com/ronovsky To connect with ISBC: * Website: https://www.illinoissportsbusiness.com * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uofisbc/ * Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/UIUC_ISBC * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isbc_uiuc ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: +Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle: Shuffle on, Chicago! Take part in the city's best running celebration and shuffle with us through the streets of downtown Chicago on Sunday, March 25. Sign up using the code PAINLESS to secure your spot in the race for $40. Direct link for registration: http://haku.ly/06c79e +2018 IEG Sponsorship Conference. Coming to Chicago April 8-11, this is THE. SPONSORSHIP. INDUSTRY. EVENT. Painless members receive TWENTY PERCENT OFF admission. Save up to $450 when you head to www.IEG2018.com and use our special code: IEG2018PN. ***** NEXT PAINLESS EVENT: Thurs, Mar 15. Annual Tourney Watch and St. Paddy's Weekend Warm-up at Joe's on Weed (940 W. Weed St., Chicago) from 430-830p. More info here: https://painless.network/event/annual-painless-march-madness-event/ ***** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 41: Jim Andrews (SVP, ESP Properties & Chair, IEG Sponsorship Conference) Jim explains how a high school teacher scared him away from pursuing an acting career and he shifted to journalism. Northwestern University's famed Medill School of Journalism lured him to Chicago. One fateful day in grad school, he passed the Medill job board - real corkboard, not a website - and spotted an interesting job with a new marketing newsletter. That newsletter became The IEG Sponsorship Report, and Jim has never looked back. Hear his story on Episode 41 of the Painless Podcast. To connect with Jim, the IEG Sponsorship Conference and ESP Properties... * Web: www.IEG2018.com or www.sponsorship.com * Twitter - ESP: https://www.twitter.com/@ESPprops * Twitter - Jim: https://www.twitter.com/JimAndrews_ESP * LinkedIn - ESP: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1690937 * LinkedIn - Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimandrewsieg/ * LinkedIn - HomeField Alliance: https://www.linkedin.com/company/homefieldalliance/ ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that grants access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network ***** Please support our partners: +Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle: Shuffle on, Chicago! Take part in the city's best running celebration and shuffle with us through the streets of downtown Chicago on Sunday, March 25. Sign up using the code PAINLESS to secure your spot in the race for $40. Direct link for registration: http://haku.ly/06c79e +2018 IEG Sponsorship Conference. Coming to Chicago April 8-11, this is THE. SPONSORSHIP. INDUSTRY. EVENT. Painless members receive TWENTY PERCENT OFF admission. Save up to $450 when you head to www.IEG2018.com and use our special code: IEG2018PN. ***** NEXT PAINLESS EVENT: Thurs, Mar 15. Annual Tourney Watch and St. Paddy's Weekend Warm-up at Joe's on Weed (940 W. Weed St., Chicago) from 430-830p. More info here: https://painless.network/event/annual-painless-march-madness-event/ ***** About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 12 Illini Holiday Event with AD Josh Whitman, 2003 Miss America Erika Harold and former Illini basketball players Robert Archibald and Brian Randle Deon and Eric catch up with several Illini friends at the annual Suburban Illini Club's holiday party. University of Illinois Athletic Director Josh Whitman gives us some insight into his first two years on the job. You'll also hear what former Illini basketball players Robert Archibald and Brian Randle are up to. And we also hear why Erika Harold is devoting so much time to public service, and how she turned an attempt at paying for law school into becoming Miss America 2003! The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men's Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast "Game of the Week," and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter - www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram - www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Episode 12 features multiple tracks from Marty Casey's debut solo album, "The Ground You Walk On," available now on iTunes at www.smareturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 40: Jeannie Goldstein & Scott Kirkpatrick (Partners, Chicago Sports + Entertainment Partners) Jeannie and Scott share their stories of breaking into sports marketing, how they came together to create their own agency and how they became experts on Olympic and Paralympic athletes, through five olympic games - all on Episode 40 of the Painless Podcast. To connect with Chicago Sports + Entertainment Partners... -Web: www.ChicagoSEP.com -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoSportsandEntertainmentPartners ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +Assemble: You're busy making your business successful. The last things you need to worry about are long-term commitments, hidden fees or limited access. That's why Assemble provides you with a truly turnkey short-term office. One flexible, short-term membership. No surprises. Learn how Assemble can help you grow your business - and your network - at http://assemblesharedoffice.com. To RSVP for Valentine's Day Breakfast Networking, go to http://assemblesharedoffice.com/schedule-a-tour/, enter your contact information and include "PAINLESS" in the "Tell Us About Your Company" box. HURRY! SPACE IS LIMITED! +Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle: Shuffle on, Chicago! Take part in the city's best running celebration and shuffle with us through the streets of downtown Chicago on Sunday, March 25. Sign up using the code PAINLESS to secure your spot in the race for $40. Direct link for registration: http://haku.ly/06c79e +2018 IEG Sponsorship Conference. Coming to Chicago April 8-11, this is THE. SPONSORSHIP. INDUSTRY. EVENT. Painless members receive TWENTY PERCENT OFF admission. Save up to $450 when you head to www.IEG2018.com and use our special code: IEG2018PN. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 39: Steve Buzby (CEO, Revel Marketing) Steve Buzby is passionate about sports and event partnerships. Not just selling sponsorships, but finding true partners. Not just getting meetings, but getting the right ones so they become great connections. Hear Steve’s story, including how he struck out on his own, and then about a year in pivoted to terrific results on Episode 39 of the Painless Podcast. To connect with Steve and Revel Marketing... • Steve’s email: Steve.B@revelmarketing.co • Web: www.revelmarketing.co • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/REVELMarketing.co/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revelmarketingco/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/17909425/ ----- Sign up for your complementary Painless membership for access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +Assemble: You're busy making your business successful. The last things you need to worry about are long-term commitments, hidden fees or limited access. That's why Assemble provides you with a truly turnkey short-term office. One flexible, short-term membership. No surprises. Learn how Assemble can help you grow your business – and your network – at http://assemblesharedoffice.com. To RSVP for Valentine’s Day Breakfast Networking, go to http://assemblesharedoffice.com/schedule-a-tour/, enter your contact information and include “PAINLESS” in the Notes box that says “Tell Us About Your Company.” SPACE IS LIMITED! +Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle: Shuffle on, Chicago! Take part in the city’s best running celebration and shuffle with us through the streets of downtown Chicago on Sunday, March 25! Sign up for the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K using the code PAINLESS to secure your spot in the race for $40. Direct link for registration: http://haku.ly/06c79e About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 38: Jim “Skinny” Sheahan & Jen Kramer (Special Olympics Chicago) Skinny Sheahan and Jen Kramer have both played key roles with numerous successful events around Chicago – the Marathon, Taste of Chicago, Navy Pier/McCormick Place, and many more. Hear some of their stories including how they both become so involved with Special Olympics Chicago on Episode 38 of the Painless Podcast. To connect with Special Olympics Chicago... • Special Olympics Chicago: http://sochicago.org • Polar Plunge: http://chicagopolarplunge.org • 50th Anniversary details: https://www.specialolympics.org/50th.aspx • Special Olympics Chicago on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/specialolympicschicago/ ***** Sign up for your FREE Painless membership that access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +Monroestar: Your website is an essential marketing tool to attract customers. Whether the goal is to educate the public or serve as an extension of your business, the impression your website creates is critical. Painless Members Vinay & Dave will help you find the right solution. They certainly did in rebuilding www.Painless.Network! Connect with them at http://monroestar.com today! About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 11 Ed Molitor, CEO, The Molitor Group Throughout his professional career, the words “coaching” and “leadership” have been synonymous with the positions Ed Molitor has held. Growing up in Chicago’s north suburbs, Ed played basketball at Palatine High School for his father, coaching legend Ed Molitor, Sr. He took the lessons he learned from his father, applied them to a college basketball career, and then into college coaching and his current calling as an executive coach and motivational speaker. Ed’s leadership skills, traits, and behaviors are the reasons he has realized success as a college basketball coach, mortgage broker, and motivational speaker who talks about the life lessons learned in competitive athletics. Ed shares some of these lessons with Deon and Eric, and discusses how he came into his current role as the CEO of The Molitor Group. Ed also gives insight on how the “Athletics of Business” program takes lessons learned in competition and applies them to the business world. You can learn more about Ed by visiting www.themolitorgroup.com. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your FREE account profile and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 37: Tony Schiller (Partner, Paragon) Those of us in sports or event engagement marketing are much better off that Tony Schiller took a job at the renovated Chicago Theater rather than get his doctorate and become a psychologist. Though he still often fills the role of “therapist,” he has instead helped build Paragon Marketing, an agency with a great culture and a history of doing some terrific work. Hear his story and how he got to where he is today on Episode 37 of the Painless Podcast. To connect with Tony and Paragon... • Paragon: http://www.paragonmarketing.biz • Twitter: @atschiller - https://twitter.com/atschiller • Twitter: @paragon_mktg - https://twitter.com/paragon_mktg • LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d2bgr8/ • LinkedIn Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/36530/ Book Tony mentions: “Why They Follow” by Scott Love. A link to the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Why-They-Follow-Positive-Influence/dp/1518650295 ***** Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that access to other members, jobs, our Dec 6 event (and donations) and our email newsletter NOW at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +Monroestar: Your website is an essential marketing tool to attract customers. Whether the goal is to educate the public or serve as an extension of your business, the impression your website creates is critical. Painless Members Vinay & Dave will help you find the right solution. They certainly did in rebuilding www.Painless.Network! Connect with them at http://monroestar.com today! +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 10 Paul Shirley, Author, Stories I Tell on Dates / Former NBA Player He blogged before anyone knew what a “blog” was, he famously asked a LOT of team owners if he could keep his jersey, he played on one of the best NBA teams of all time, and now he’s released his second book. Former NBA player Paul Shirley joins Deon and Eric to talk about Paul’s book, “Stories I Tell on Dates”, as well as sharing some of his stories about playing pro hoops, and how he found his way to his new career. “Stories I Tell on Dates” isn’t just about dating, or hoops. It’s a book about how a professional athlete works to relate to others, and it shares stories very similar to things many of us grew up with (albeit with a lot more humor!). The book isn’t just for basketball fans…anyone should be able to relate to the stories, and will find Paul’s writing introspective, humorous, and enjoyable. You can order your copy of Paul’s book at www.storiesitellondates.com. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your free account and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 36: Justin Breen (Founder, BrEpic Communications) Hear from journalist turned PR entrepreneur Justin Breen on helping start up DNAInfo, then leaving to start his own firm earlier this year. We also discuss the demise of DNAInfo, how he’s changing the approach to media relations and content generations and why he looks to help others. To connect with Justin... • BrEpic: https://www.brepicllc.com • Facebook: @BrEpic - https://www.facebook.com/BrEpic/ • Twitter: @BrEpicComm - https://twitter.com/BrEpicComm • Instagram: @BrEpicBreen - https://www.instagram.com/brepicbreen/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbreen1/ Book Justin mentions: “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin (St. Martin’s Press). A link to the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Ownership-U-S-Navy-SEALs/dp/1250183863/ Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +Monroestar: Your website is an essential marketing tool to attract customers. Whether the goal is to educate the public or serve as an extension of your business, the impression your website creates is critical. Painless Members Vinay & Dave will help you find the right solution. They certainly did in rebuilding www.Painless.Network! Connect with them at http://monroestar.com today! +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 9 David A. Goldstein, Author, Alley-Oop to Aliyah / COO, U SPORTS Alley-Oop to Aliyah is a recently-released book by author David A. Goldstein. It’s the incredible true story of four decades of African American basketball players travelling to Israel to play professional hoops. This subject is close to Deon’s heart, as he’s featured in this book. David joins Deon and Eric, and they discuss how the book came to be, some of the more interesting stories that former players shared with David, and we learned a little bit about the writing process. In addition to authoring this book, David is a journalist and sports executive based in Toronto. He’s currently the Chief Operating Officer of U SPORTS (Canada’s equivalent of the NCAA). You can learn more about the book, and purchase it, at www.alleyooptoaliyah.com. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music! His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your free account and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 35: John Murray (Arena Partners / World Sport Chicago / Chicago Sports Commission) To connect with John... • Arena Partners: www.getinthearena.com • World Sport Chicago: www.worldsportchicago.org • Special Olympics 50th: http://www.specialolympics50.org • Twitter: @iamjohnmurray • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmurrayarenapartners Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that access to other members, job and event postings and our email newsletter at: www.Painless.Network Please support our partners: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 8 Steve Raquel, President of the Council of Chiefs and 29th Chief Illiniwek (1993) For Fighting Illini fans, the “War Chant” music has been synonymous with Illinois athletics for nearly 40 years. As of August 2017, the University of Illinois announced the chant is no more. With this backdrop, we recently saw protests and unrest at the university, as the 2017 Homecoming Parade was interrupted by Chief protesters. Steve Raquel, the 29th Chief Illiniwek, and current President of the Council of Chiefs, joins Deon and Eric to share insight into the University’s decision on the War Chant, as well as some history on Chief Illiniwek and how the Chief was “retired” in 2007. Deon also shares his views, as a former Illini athlete. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on social media: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your free account and #GetConnected TODAY!

Painless Podcast episode 34: Rob Cressy (Founder, Bacon Sports & Cress Media) Get fired up with Rob Cressy with his story of leaving digital media sales to go all in on living and creating great sports content. To connect with Rob... • Web: www.baconsports.com or www.cressmedia.com • Twitter or Facebook: @RobCressy @BaconSports @CressMedia and @InfieldChatter Please support our partners: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +The Hot Chocolate 5K & 15K are two of the largest races of their kind in the world. Painless listeners can take $5 off entry with the code “HCPAINLESS” when you register at www.hotchocolate15k.com! HURRY - race is Oct 29! About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for your complementary Painless membership that includes Painless emails full of job and event postings TODAY at www.Painless.Network! Other Painless links... Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 7 Stephen Bardo, Analyst, Big Ten Network / Founder, Point Guard Vision College basketball has uncertainty surrounding it, with the FBI indicting a handful of assistant coaches and a shoe executive. Plus, Louisville’s Rick Pitino has been placed on administrative leave, essentially ending his tenure as head coach. Current Big Ten Network analyst, and former Flyin’ Illini, Stephen Bardo joins Deon and Eric to discuss what’s next for the NCAA, and will there be another shoe to drop. Plus, hear about the worst thing Stephen heard about when he was being recruited. In addition to Stephen’s media work, he runs “Point Guard Vision,” which helps student-athletes and their parents maximize the sports experience. Learn more about Stephen and PGV by visiting www.stephenbardo.com. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon does TV studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis for Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit the ALL NEW www.painless.network for more. Activate your free account today and #GetConnected.

Painless Podcast episode 33: Jason Coyle (CEO, Stadium / Co-founder, 120 Sports) To connect with Stadium... • On the web: WatchStadium.com • On broadcast television digital antenna in 50+ markets • On Twitter: WatchStadium.Twitter.com • On the Stadium app, available in the App Store, as well as on Apple TV The full Teddy Roosevelt quote we talk about: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” Please support our partners: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +Spikeball Nationals are this Saturday October 14 at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor. Go check out this fun sport and see over 230 teams compete! Visit www.usaspikeball.com for details. +The Hot Chocolate 5K & 15K are two of the largest races of their kind in the world. Painless listeners can take $5 off entry with the code “HCPAINLESS” when you register at www.hotchocolate15k.com! About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 6 Adrian Burgos, Editor-in-Chief, La Vida Baseball As the MLB playoffs are about to heat up, many players of Latino descent are poised to make an impact on which teams make it to the World Series. Being in the midst of Hispanic Heritage Month, and with Puerto Rico on many of our minds due to Hurricane Maria, Deon and Eric get a chance to talk baseball with Professor Adrian Burgos, Jr. Professor Burgos is the Editor-in-Chief of La Vida Baseball, a Professor of History at the University of Illinois, and a foremost scholar in Latino baseball history. He’ll share more about the history that Latinos have played in the Major Leagues, the difficulties they’ve faced in the game, and the challenges many have just trying to make it up the professional ranks. Plus, we’ll tell you some of the young players who’ll be making a difference in this year’s playoffs. You can learn more by visiting www.lavidabaseball.com. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

Painless Podcast episode 32: LIVE Big Data & Sports Innovation Panel with... Gabe Ottolini (CRO, Block Six Analytics) Nathan Frank (Data Scientist, STATS) Lotika Pai (Co-founder, POWWFUL) Dezeree Christman (VP of Digital, PCGSportsDesk) To connect further via web / Twitter: www.blocksixanalytics.com / @Block6Analytics www.stats.com / @STATS_insights www.powwful.com / @POWWFUL www.pcgsportsdesk.com / @PCGSportsDesk And find our co-host WISE Chicago at https://www.facebook.com/WISEChicago / @WISEChicago Please support our partners: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +Spikeball Nationals are October 14 at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor. Want to get in? Sign up a team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. +The Hot Chocolate 5K and 15K are two of the largest races of their kind in the world. Painless listeners can take $5 off entry with the code “HCPAINLESS” when you register at www.hotchocolate15k.com! About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 5 All-TIme Illini Great, NBA Star, pro boxer and TV analyst Kendall Gill Kendall Gill is one of the all-time great Fighting Illini basketball players, and a 15-year NBA veteran. One of the stars of the ’89 Flyin’ Illini joins Deon and Eric to talk about his college time, playing with Nick Anderson, how he thought the Illini would have been in 1990 had Deon not redshirted. As a current NBA analyst for CSN Chicago, Kendall also shares some of his predictions on where the Chicago Bulls are headed and some of his observations of the many new faces Bulls fans will see this season. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

Dave Zimmer (Co-owner and CEO, Fleet Feet Sports Chicago) Steve Ginsburg (Owner and CEO, RAM Racing) Meet two of the most successful players in running and endurance sports, Dave Zimmer from Fleet Feet Sports Chicago (www.fleetfeetchicago.com) and Steve Ginsburg from RAM Racing www.ramracing.enmotive.com). How did they build their respective businesses? And how exactly did these two competitors become friends and collaborators? The Hot Chocolate 5K/15K are two of the largest races of their kind in the world. Painless listeners can take $5 off entry with the code “HCPAINLESS” when you register at www.hotchocolate15k.com! To connect further on Twitter: @FFdavezimmer @FFChgo @HotChocolate15k @RamRacing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fleetfeetchgo/ https://www.instagram.com/ramracingorg/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fleetfeetsportschicago/ https://www.facebook.com/HotChocolate15K/ https://www.facebook.com/ram.racing.7 PAINLESS/WISE EVENT SEPT 20! Join us TONIGHT (9/20) from 6-8p at Brickhouse Tavern at Wrigley! Tickets: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/painlesswise-sports-tech-event Please support our sponsors: +A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. Interested in helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities? Visit www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +Enter Spikeball Nationals October 14 in Chicago at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off! ABOUT Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 30: Carey Pinkowski (Executive Race Director, Bank of America Chicago Marathon) Tim Hadzima (General Manager, Abbott World Marathon Majors) The 40th Bank of America Chicago Marathon (www.chicagomarathon.com and @chimarathon) is just a few weeks away. Hear from race director Carey Pinkowski (@careyrunschi) on how they turn 26.2 miles of urban roadway into a world-class endurance event for 45,000 runners. Tim Hadzima (@timmyhad) from Abbott World Marathon Majors (www.worldmarathonmajors.com and @wmmajors) joins as well to talk about the collaboration between the world’s top six marathons, including Chicago. PAINLESS/WISE SPORTS & TECH EVENT SEPT 20! Join us from 6-8p on Sept 20 at the new Brickhouse Tavern at Wrigley Field! Tickets are selling fast – get yours here TODAY: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/painlesswise-sports-tech-event Please support our sponsors: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA Careers page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +Spikeball Nationals are October 14 at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor. Want to get in? Sign up a team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg (@chartweg). Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 4 Former Illinois Assistant and UIC Head Basketball Coach Jimmy Collins Going back in Illini history, Deon and Eric sit down with Jimmy Collins, former Assistant Coach for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini. Coach Collins also made a name for himself in the Final Four as a star guard at New Mexico State, and is the University of Illinois at Chicago’s all-time leader in coaching wins. In this episode, Coach Collins tells us how he found his way into coaching, and his thoughts on how he successfully recruited Chicago during the Flying Illini days. He also shares who his toughest “sell” was to convince to come to the University of Illinois. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Comcast “Game of the Week,” and other sports and entertainment segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter – www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram – www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Play. And big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

Painless Podcast episode 29: Scott Paddock (President, Chicagoland Speedway) Hear from the head of Chicagoland Speedway as NASCAR is about invade town. Check out www.chicagolandspeedway.com for track and event info. For opportunities to join their team scroll down to “Join Our Team” at the bottom of their homepage. PAINLESS/WISE SPORTS & TECH EVENT SEPT 20! Join us from 6-8p on Sept 20 at the new Brickhouse Tavern at Wrigley Field! Tickets selling fast here: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/painlesswise-sports-tech-event This week’s sponsors: +NCSA: A tech company with a sports mindset, NCSA emphasizes the importance of their staff team, and has been recognized for its culture initiatives, benefits and workplace environment, winning multiple awards. If you’re interested in joining the NCSA team and helping student-athletes connect with college coaches and opportunities, visit the NCSA careers web page at www.ncsasports.org/who-is-ncsa/jobs/careers. +Spikeball Nationals are October 14 at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor. Want to get in? Sign up a team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf MORE: Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 28: Jeff Urban (Co-founder & President, Whistle Sports) Hear from the co-founder of Whistle Sports, a global community with 400 of the world’s most engaging sports content creators that encompasses nearly 400 million aggregate subscribers, fans and followers with a growth rate of over 2 million a week. Check out www.WhistleSports.com/careers for opportunities to join their team. This week’s sponsor: +Spikeball Nationals are October 14 at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor. Want to get in? Sign up a team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Focusing on how and why they landed where they are and the role of mentoring and networking to get there. Sign up for Painless emails that include job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf MORE: Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork Instagram: www.instagram.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 3 Illinois Women’s Basketball Coach Nancy Fahey Deon and Eric visit with new University of Illinois women’s basketball coach Nancy Fahey. She joins the Illini after winning FIVE national championships at Division III Washington University in St. Louis, including four in a row (1998-1999-2000-2001-2010! A two-time WBCA Coach of the Year (2000, 2011), Nancy owns a 737-133 (.847) coaching record and was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. No stranger to the Big Ten, the Wisconsin native played at the University of Wisconsin. She shares some of her deep experience and knowledge with Deon and Eric here in Episode 3. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men's Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the “Xfinity Game of the Week,” and other sports segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter - www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram - www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And a big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

Painless Podcast episode 27: Dan Ciccone & Ken Olsen (rEvXP) Focus is on eSports this week! Early on, we talk about an op-ed Dan penned pointing out eSports has been around a LOT longer than the last 18 months. Here’s a link to "eSports - Investing in ‘the wild, wild West?’" -- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/esports-investing-wild-west-dan-ciccone This week’s sponsor: +Spikeball Nationals are at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor on October 14. Sign up your team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Sign up for Painless emails including job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf MORE: Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 26: David Ladd (VP, STATS, LLC) Among key topics, we talk about STATS being in a big growth mode. Go to www.stats.com/careers for all the details, including 27 openings at their new downtown Chicago HQ, at least six of those are sales roles on David’s team. We also talked about case studies and papers on SportVU and other data uses. Find all those here: https://www.stats.com/data-science/. This week’s sponsor: +Spikeball Nationals are at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor on October 14. Sign up your team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Sign up for Painless emails including job and event postings at: http://eepurl.com/sOJcf MORE: Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 2 Coach Lou Henson Deon and Eric visit with basketball coaching icon Lou Henson and his wife, Mary. We discuss some fun facts about Coach Henson, including his role in integrating Hardin-Simmons University, his thoughts on the 1989 Flyin' Illini, and the media reaction to his hiring at the University of Illinois in 1975. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men's Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Xfinity Game of the Week, and other sports segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter - www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram - www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And a big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

The FadeAway with Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt - Episode 1 Catching up with Deon Many Illini fans know that Deon Thomas is the leading scorer in University of Illinois Men's Basketball History. But most don't know what he's been up to since graduation. Deon talks about the path that lead him through international basketball, coaching, off-the-court work with kids, and the lessons he's learned to get to today. The FadeAway is hosted by Deon Thomas and Eric Schmidt. Deon currently does television studio work for the Big Ten Network and radio color analysis during Fighting Illini Men's Basketball games. Eric can be seen on the Xfinity Game of the Week, and other sports segments, for Comcast in Chicago. Keep in touch with the FadeAway on the following social media channels: Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFadeAwayDeonEric Twitter - www.twitter.com/TheFadeAwayChi Instagram - www.instagram.com/thefadeawaychi Thanks to Marty Casey for our music. His debut solo album, The Ground You Walk On, is available now on iTunes at www.smarturl.it/MartyCasey. You can also find it on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Play. And a big thanks to Chris Hartweg and Painless Networking for making us a part of the Painless Podcast Network! Visit www.painless.network for more.

Painless Podcast episode 25: Bob Fallen (President & Commissioner, USHL) This week’s sponsor: +Spikeball Nationals are at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor on October 14. Sign up your team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% off your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 24: Carrie Williams (Executive Director, Illinois PGA) www.ipga.com This week’s sponsors: +Illini RST Celeb-Am Golf Outing is Friday, August 11, at Deerfield Golf Club in Riverwoods, Illinois.  For foursomes and hole sponsorships, email niklapin@aol.com or visit www.IlliniRSTGolfOuting.com. Benefits U of I Department of Recreation, Sport & Tourism scholarship fund. +Spikeball Nationals are at Chicago’s Cricket Hill in Montrose Harbor on October 14. Sign up your team TODAY at https://usaspikeball.com/e/2017-usa-spikeball-roundnet-national-championship. Use code “PAINLESS” and get 50% OFF your entry fee. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 23: John Guppy (President & Founder, Gilt Edge Soccer Marketing) This week’s sponsor: Illini RST Celeb-Am Golf Outing benefitting the U of I Department of Recreation, Sport & Tourism scholarship fund Friday, August 11, at Deerfield Golf Club in Riverwoods, Illinois.  For foursomes and hole sponsorships, email niklapin@aol.com or visit www.IlliniRSTGolfOuting.com. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 22: Mike Gordon (President, Chicago Wolves) This week’s sponsor: Illini RST Celeb-Am Golf Outing benefitting the U of I Department of Recreation, Sport & Tourism scholarship fund Friday, August 11th at Deerfield Golf Club in Riverwoods, Illinois.  For foursomes and hole sponsorships, email niklapin@aol.com or visit www.IlliniRSTGolfOuting.com. About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork

Painless Podcast episode 21: Gordon Kane (SVP, Ascendent Sports) This week’s sponsor: Uncorked, Bottles & Barrels July 13 at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, Ill., from 5pm - 8pm Tickets & Info: www.WestfieldOldOrchardUncorked.Eventbrite.com About the Painless Podcast: Get to know interesting people, jobs and places to work in and around sports, events, start-ups and cause marketing world. Hosted by Chris Hartweg. Often featuring Painless Networking members. Key Painless links... URL: www.Painless.Network Linked in: www.linkedin.com/groups/73710 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PainlessNetworking Twitter: www.twitter.com/PainlessNetwork