Podcasts about coachella valley firebirds

Send us a textIn this episode, Jeremy sits down with Jonathan Hufnagel, founder and CEO of Dash, the leading fan activation platform used by over 400 sports teams across North America. What started as a digital auction tool has evolved into a comprehensive fan engagement and e-commerce solution helping teams drive revenue, generate leads, and create unforgettable in-game experiences.Jonathan shares the story behind Dash's creation, how they're helping teams simplify promotions like jersey auctions and mystery tickets, and why now is the time for teams to lean into digital engagement — not shy away from it. Plus, hear real-world success stories from teams like the Florida Everblades and Coachella Valley Firebirds that are driving major ROI through creative, data-driven activations.Whether you're in ticketing, sponsorship, or marketing, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to help your team move faster, sell smarter, and activate fans more effectively.

AI is transforming every industry—and sponsorship is no exception.In this episode, we unpack how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of sponsorships. From smarter audience targeting to predictive analytics and real-time campaign optimization, we explore the real ways AI will impact how brands build partnerships, prove ROI, and connect with fans.If you work in sponsorship or brand partnerships, this is the episode you don't want to miss.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

At the start of each year, Rich and Nick share their bold predictions for the trends shaping the sponsorship industry. Now that we're halfway through the year, it's time to check in—what's holding strong, what missed the mark, and what surprised us?In this episode, we revisit our January picks, break down what's actually happening in the field, and share what to watch next as the sponsorship landscape continues to evolve.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

What happens when your sport isn't on ESPN… but still has a die-hard community?Should you just stick with local sponsors? How can you unlock those bigger deals?We had a great listener question come in this week on this very topic.In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges and untapped advantages of selling sponsorships for niche and local sports. From roller derby to motorcycle racing, we explore how smaller sports can punch above their weight by offering hyper-targeted audiences, authentic engagement, and grassroots loyalty that big leagues can't match.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

On this episode of the Sound Of Hockey Podcast, the guys discuss the latest news that Rick Tocchet has been hired by the Philadelphia Flyers and consider what that might mean for the Seattle Kraken. They also go Down on the Farm, where the Coachella Valley Firebirds' season has come to an end. Segments include Bad Boys, Weekly One-Timers, and What's Good? SUBSCRIBE! ENJOY! REVIEW!

For the first time in franchise history, the 'Birds' season ends in May. Join in for reflections, observations and laughs via a dozen players exit interviews, and a media visit with head coach Derek Laxdal.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

Game on: With the 'Birds and Canucks tied at a game apiece in the Division Semis and the series moving North of the Border, join in for a full Media Roundtable, featuring: Tim O'Brien (NBC-Palm Springs' lead sports anchor/Acrisure in-arena host/Firebirds' rinkside reporter); Shad Powers (columnist for The Desert Sun newspaper); Patrick Williams (features writer at AHL.com, FloHockey, NHL.com); ; and Andrew L. John (reporter for The Desert Sun).Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

When Rich & Nick started the Inches, it came from chats on sponsorships in Rich's office below Memorial Coliseum in Portland, OR.We would dive into all topics, sponsorships, and sports business with no agenda.Well, this week on The Inches, we decided to take it back to where we started...with no topic.We dive into topics ranging from youth sports investments, the growth of the women's leagues and what this means for sponsorships, and round it out with how the MLS will deal with going to a European schedule.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

It's another huge SOH Podcast Episode this week, as BFOP Alison Lukan joins us in studio for a Kraken retrospective, coach talk, and much more. Enjoy this, because it's allegedly Alison's last time on the pod (but probably not really). Also, the guys chatted with Evan Pivnick this week about the Coachella Valley Firebirds and their chances in the AHL Calder Cup Playoffs. Segments include Down on the Farm, Weekly One-Timers, Bad Boys, and What's Good.SUBSCRIBE! ENJOY! REVIEW!

The 'Birds (again) earn a postseason advance past Calgary, and now move on to face the Abbotsford Canucks in the Division Semifinal. Joining in to discuss the playoff push is CV winger/PK specialist, Brandon Biro.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

If you work in sponsorships, it will happen. A brand doesn't want to sponsor your team directly...so they creatively try and reach your fans without the partnership.How do you prevent this from happening? How can you stop a brand from hijacking the most valuable asset you have as a sponsorship department...your ability to deeply connect with fans?In this episode, we dive into how to identify, manage, and work through sponsorship infiltration.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

The postseason is here! As the Firebirds ready for an opening-round, best-of-three duel with the division rival Calgary Wranglers, join in for this Media Roundtable, featuring: Shad Powers of The Desert Sun; NBC-Palm Springs lead sports anchor/'Birds' in-arena host & rinkside reporter, Tim O'Brien; and Matt Rose, Wranglers' color analyst and co-host of "The Big Show with Rusic and Rose" on Sportsnet 960-The Fan.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

Sponsorship entitlements are among the most prized assets in our inventory—powerful tools that tie brands directly to the fan experience. But what are they really worth? And how do you sell them without underselling their impact?In this episode, we break down the true value of entitlements, how to position them, and smart strategies to manage and monetize them effectively. Whether you're selling the naming rights to a segment or locking in a long-term sponsor for a fan-favorite feature, this one's for you.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

The season finale, and Apr. 16 episode of Kraken Weekly, hosted by Mike Benton and joined by Everett Fitzhugh at 32 Bar and Grill. Guests include captain Jordan Eberle, center Matty Beniers, and Coachella Valley Firebirds broadcast voice Evan Pivnick. 

With the 'Birds winding-down the regular season and heading back to the playoffs, join in for this visit with electric CV rookie forward, Nathan Villeneuve.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

When the Economy Shakes, How Do You Keep Sponsors Steady?Economic downturns aren't new—and they're not going away. But when budgets tighten and uncertainty rises, your sponsorship revenue doesn't have to take a hit.In this episode, we explore proven strategies to maintain sponsor confidence, protect budgets, and even grow partnerships during turbulent times. From messaging shifts to value re-framing, learn how to not just survive—but thrive—when the market gets shaky.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

The San Jose Barracuda (34-25-5-4) got 24 saves from Yaroslav Askarov, upending the Coachella Valley Firebirds (36-24-2-5), 1-0, in overtime. With the win, SJ finished the season series with a 7-1 mark. Filip Bystedt scored the game-winning goal 53 seconds into the extra session.

The San Jose Barracuda (34-25-5-4) got 24 saves from Yaroslav Askarov, upending the Coachella Valley Firebirds (36-24-2-5), 1-0, in overtime. With the win, SJ finished the season series with a 7-1 mark. Filip Bystedt scored the game-winning goal 53 seconds into the extra session.

Are you selling the emotion of sports—or just space on a banner?Sponsors crave passion, loyalty, and excitement—but what they're really buying is the inventory that gives them access to it.So, how do you make sure your sponsorship assets are actually delivering? And how can you confidently say they're working?In this episode, we break down how to manage, audit, and optimize your sponsorship inventory to drive real results—for your sponsors and your team.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

With the 'Birds jockeying for playoff position amid a mere eight games to play, tune in for this Deep-season Media Roundtable, featuring Tim O'Brien of NBC Palm Springs and Desert Sun columnist, Shad Powers.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

As the 'Birds seek a late-season push amid a taut Pacific, join in for this chat with CV forward and Stanley Cup champion, Mitchell Stephens. Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

Today we're celebrating IWD with a special episode featuring a history-maker in hockey: Jessica Campbell. In July 2024, Jessica became assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken, breaking barriers in a field long dominated by men. By fall, she made history as the first woman to coach behind the bench in an NHL game.Jessica's coaching journey has been full of firsts—from coaching internationally in Sweden to becoming the first woman behind the bench at the men's World Championships with Team Germany in 2021. She then joined the AHL's Coachella Valley Firebirds, paving her way to the NHL.Beyond coaching, Jessica was just named a Canadian partner for L'Oréal Paris' Worth It program, recognized for her leadership, resilience, and impact in breaking barriers for women in sports. Jessica isn't just coaching; she's changing the game. Today's conversation with Jessica Campbell is brought to you by L'Oréal Paris Canada. This International Women's Day, L'Oréal Paris is celebrating trailblazers who redefine what's possible—like Jessica, the first full-time female assistant coach in NHL history. From coaching internationally to making history behind the bench, Jessica's leadership is inspiring women everywhere to believe in their worth. Learn more about L'Oréal Paris' commitment to empowerment at lorealparis.ca. Because WE'RE WORTH IT.This season of our podcast is brought to you by TD Canada Women in Enterprise. TD is proud to support women entrepreneurs and help them achieve success and growth through its program of educational workshops, financing and mentorship opportunities! Please find out how you can benefit from their support! Visit: TBIF: thebrandisfemale.com // TD Women in Enterprise: td.com/ca/en/business-banking/small-business/women-in-business // Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrandisfemale

As the season heats-up, so do the 'Birds. With just 16 games to play and CV leading the Pac, jump on the blue line for this visit with standout rookie defenseman, Ty Nelson.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

In sponsorships, numbers define our worth—but are all numbers created equal?Does the real value for sponsors come from reaching the largest audience, or is it about engaging the same fans more often?In this episode, we break down the impact of reach vs. frequency, how each influences sponsorship ROI, and how your team should be leveraging them to maximize value.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

The San Jose Barracuda (26-19-2-3) fell behind by a pair of goals early on Sunday afternoon at Acrisure Arena and could not dig their way out, falling 5-3 to the Coachella Valley Firebirds (20-17-1-5).

The San Jose Barracuda (26-19-2-3) fell behind by a pair of goals early on Sunday afternoon at Acrisure Arena and could not dig their way out, falling 5-3 to the Coachella Valley Firebirds (20-17-1-5).

With the 'Birds on a heater and skating toward the top spot in the Pac, jump on the bench for this special visit with CV head coach, Derek Laxdal.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

$800M+ was spent on Super Bowl ads this year. That is an insane amount of money to reach probably one of the most captivated audiences in sports.So, were they successful?In this episode, we delve into the standout & dud commercials from Super Bowl LIX.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley chat with 5-time Stanley Cup Champion Grant Fuhr! Grant talks about his current role as color analyst for the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL, the great year for the Firebirds, playing hockey in the desert, the window to win for the Oilers, the art of the coaching change, potential trades for the Oilers, a regression year for the Rangers, Kaapo Kakko to the Kraken, his favoirte players around the league, thoughts on the trapezoid, the 4 Nations Face-Off, and more!

Listen in a flash: Firebirds' speedster rook Lleyton Roed joins the show as CV rides a four-game heater and heads into the season's homestretch.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

In episode #287, Head Coach of the Coachella Valley Firebirds Derek Laxdal stops by. His coaching career has seen him climb from the now defunct Western Professional Hockey League, to the Central Hockey League, the East Coast Hockey League, to the Western Hockey League, the American League and finally, to the show. During that time, he's successfully navigated the ebbs and flows of his coaching journey with his trademark optimism and enthusiam. Today, Laxdal is the Head Coach of the AHL affiliate to the Seattle Kraken. No different than any other team he's coached, he has the ‘Birds in contention as they make their way towards another playoff run.  Listen as he shares why the skill of defending is lacking in today's young player, how to change the narritive after a tough loss, and how to stay optimistic through the challenges of a coaching career.

Let's get right into the Kraken Reaction this week shall we?! Jeff provides an update on the team starting with Jeff Camelio's 2000th game as the Seattle Kraken's Equipment Manager, losing 3 out of 4, Kaapo Kakko representing in the 4 Nations Face-Off, and Jordan Eberle's insane return to the ice. Finally, the big news, the boys talk about Philipp Grubauer being placed on waivers before ultimately going down to the Coachella Valley Firebirds and what that looks like for the organization including a potential buyout once the season is over. Next, Joey breaks down the Kraken's prospect pool rankings and how it reflects the future being so bright despite a down season. In NHL News: Utah has a logo leak and the two weigh in on their personal favorites. Three Stars of the Week covers everything from Jeff's obsession with Tyler Sheridan, the best show on tv, Super Bowl madness in New Orleans, the ending of dry January, an insider look at a Mardi Gras ball, and Luka Doncic being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks. Ending, as always, with the Chirp of the Week. 02:57 Kraken Reaction 29:06 Draft Kings offer for listeners Subscribe: -On All podcasting apps. Rate & review on iTunes, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! -Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram at @KrakenPod! This Episode is Brought to you by DraftKings! New episodes every week on The Hockey Podcast Network. Release the Kraken! #SeaKraken

Massive Seattle Kraken news broke this week, when goaltender Philipp Grubauer was placed on waivers to send him to the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Lots of discussion in this episode about what led to that decision and what it means for the team moving forward. Plus, a breakdown of the recent games, and lots of segments that include: Bad Boys Get Off My Lawn Down on the Farm Weekly One-Timers What's Good? SUBSCRIBE! ENJOY! REVIEW!

If you are in sales, you've been met with this objection. You gave the pitch, you got the proposal ready, then right before it's time to sign...you get this objection;"I don't have the budget".In this episode of The Inches, we dive into how to work through this objection with your prospects, and how you can set up your sales meetings to make it less likely to come up.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Following an ugly loss to the Anaheim Ducks that continues a frustrating season for the Seattle Kraken, longtime goaltender and fan favorite Philipp Grubauer was waived by the team for the purpose of being assigned to the teams AHL affiliate Coachella Valley Firebirds. RJ from Emerald City Hockey joins Charles Hamaker to discuss the move in the hours after it occurred.

With the AHL All-Star Classic heading our way on Feb. 2-3, join in for a seasonal report and All-Star prep, compliments of Patrick Williams, features writer for AHL.com.Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.

The San Jose Barracuda (21-13-1-2), entered Wednesday just 2-8 this season when trailing after 40 minutes, but found a way to tie the score in the final 20 minutes before winning it in a shootout, 4-3, over the Coachella Valley Firebirds (21-13-1-5). With the win, the Cuda improved to 6-0 against Seattle's affiliate and snapped a three-game skid (0-2-1-0).

The San Jose Barracuda (21-13-1-2), entered Wednesday just 2-8 this season when trailing after 40 minutes, but found a way to tie the score in the final 20 minutes before winning it in a shootout, 4-3, over the Coachella Valley Firebirds (21-13-1-5). With the win, the Cuda improved to 6-0 against Seattle's affiliate and snapped a three-game skid (0-2-1-0).

Gone are the days when a simple logo slap was enough. Today, sponsors expect real fan engagement—activations that create memorable connections.But how do you ensure your activations actually work?In this episode, we break down the three critical questions you must ask to guarantee your activations drive value for both your team and your sponsors. Tune in to learn how to create experiences that go beyond branding and deliver real impact.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

The Jan. 15 episode of Kraken Weekly, hosted by Mike Benton and joined by defenseman Cale Fleury of the AHL's Coachella Valley Firebirds, and Arda Öcal of the NHL on ESPN. 

It's 2025, the new year. A fresh start to reset, refocus, and refresh your sponsorship strategies going into 2025.Each year, Rich and Nick discuss five resolutions you should make in the new year as you continue to grow in the sponsorship industry.In this episode, we dive into the 5 we have for 2025.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Ontario is on to Palm Desert for a Saturday night matchup with the Coachella Valley Firebirds at Acrisure Arena. Jared Shafran gets you set for the battle with a recap of the Reign's 4-3 shootout loss in San Diego on Friday and all the latest numbers from the series with the Firebirds in addition to postgame thoughts from Marco Sturm after Friday's close finish.

We're back at it with our predictions for 2025 in sponsorships. A staple episode for the Podcast.In this episode, we'll dive into 5 predictions we see as most vital for the sponsorship industry for 2025.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Former Firebird Andrew Poturalski finished with three points and the San Jose Barracuda (15-7-0-2) cashed in on the power play three times in a 5-2 win over the Coachella Valley Firebirds (14-8-1-3) at Acrisure Arena on Wednesday night. With the win, the Barracuda are now 5-0 versus the Firebirds.

Former Firebird Andrew Poturalski finished with three points and the San Jose Barracuda (15-7-0-2) cashed in on the power play three times in a 5-2 win over the Coachella Valley Firebirds (14-8-1-3) at Acrisure Arena on Wednesday night. With the win, the Barracuda are now 5-0 versus the Firebirds.

In his first game back at Acrisure Arena since helping guide the Coachella Valley Firebirds (11-8-1-3) to back-to-back Calder Cup Finals, San Jose Barracuda (15-6-0-1) forward Andrew Poturalski scored with under two minutes to go in regulation to tie the game on Thursday night and then won it in the second round of a shootout to complete the 4-3 victory. The Barracuda finished the game with a season-high 54 shots and have now picked up points in seven in a row (6-0-0-1) and have won their last three. Ethan Cardwell led the way with 10 shots on net as the Barracuda improved to 4-0 against the Firebirds.

In his first game back at Acrisure Arena since helping guide the Coachella Valley Firebirds (11-8-1-3) to back-to-back Calder Cup Finals, San Jose Barracuda (15-6-0-1) forward Andrew Poturalski scored with under two minutes to go in regulation to tie the game on Thursday night and then won it in the second round of a shootout to complete the 4-3 victory. The Barracuda finished the game with a season-high 54 shots and have now picked up points in seven in a row (6-0-0-1) and have won their last three. Ethan Cardwell led the way with 10 shots on net as the Barracuda improved to 4-0 against the Firebirds.

Each year we dive into our sponsorship resolutions on the podcast. The question becomes, did the industry keep up with the resolutions we set?In this episode, we dive into our 2024 resolutions and see how the industry held up as we round the year out.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Ontario will go up against the Coachella Valley Firebirds for the second time in three days on Sunday afternoon at Acrisure Arena. Jared Shafran and Paige Capistran break down the Reign's 4-3 loss to the Firebirds on Friday in Ontario and discuss what the rematch may bring in Palm Desert. Hear what Marco Sturm and Taylor Ward had to say leading into Sunday's tilt.

The Reign are set for a Friday night matchup with the Coachella Valley Firebirds at Toyota Arena. Jared Shafran and Paige Capistran discuss Ontario's back-to-back 8-goal offensive performances and prepare for the contest against the team's I-10 rival. Hear from Marco Sturm, Tyler Madden and Jeff Malott after Wednesday's win.