Athletes in today’s world have incredible opportunities to leverage their sports stardom for various business, advocacy, and philanthropic ventures through social media and online communities. One prime example of this is soccer superstar Alex Morgan, who recently sat down with her longtime business partner Dan Levy to discuss her transition from the pitch to off-field endeavors on a recent episode of the “Strictly Business” podcast by Variety.
Morgan, who retired from professional soccer in September 2024 after a successful 15-year career, has been a trailblazer for women’s sports both on and off the field. She was a key player for the U.S. Women’s National Team, participating in multiple World Cup and Olympic matches. Over the years, Morgan has not only excelled in her sport but has also been a vocal advocate for pay equity and better opportunities for female athletes.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the coverage and visibility of women’s sports, with more attention being paid to leagues and athletes like Morgan. This shift is partly due to the efforts of athletes like Morgan, who have worked tirelessly to promote women’s sports and demand equal treatment in the industry. Morgan, along with other sports leaders, launched Togethxr in 2021, a sports brand focused on supporting and empowering female athletes, especially those who are also mothers.
Through Togethxr, Morgan and her team work with brands, produce content, and provide advocacy and support services for female athletes. The company aims to amplify the stories of female athletes that often go unnoticed in the mainstream media. Morgan’s advocacy for equal pay reached a significant milestone when she and her teammates secured a $24 million settlement in a pay parity lawsuit against the U.S. Women’s National Team in 2022.
Dan Levy emphasized the importance of Morgan’s advocacy efforts, noting that she was able to push for change while still at the peak of her playing career. Morgan’s ability to excel both on and off the field sets her apart from other athletes who struggle to balance their athletic careers with business ventures. Her dedication to making a difference in the sports industry has earned her respect and admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.
The conversation between Alex Morgan and Dan Levy at Variety’s Sports and Entertainment Breakfast in West Hollywood shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing athletes in today’s media landscape. Their discussion highlighted the importance of athletes using their platform for social good and inspiring positive change in the world of sports.
“Strictly Business” is a weekly podcast by Variety that features conversations with industry leaders about the business of media and entertainment. Listeners can subscribe to the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Play, and SoundCloud to stay updated on the latest episodes.
(Photo Credit: Alex Morgan and Dan Levy at Variety’s Sports and Entertainment Breakfast in West Hollywood)
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