Fanalytics with Mike Lewis

Higher Education Crisis: Analyzing Fandom and Influence In this episode of the Fanalytics Podcast, Emory University's Professor Mike Lewis explores the concept of fandom within higher education. He discusses the potential crisis looming over universities due to recent governmental policies affecting funding and DEI practices. Mike argues that universities possess incredibly strong fandom likened to that of major sports teams, driven by passion and engagement. He also examines how current managerial misalignments, such as excessive administrative growth, political leanings, international recruitment, and short-term leadership, may be detracting from long-term goals of building influence and fandom. He emphasizes the necessity for universities to adapt and realign their strategies to maintain their prestigious status and passionate community support. more at fanalytics.substack.com

The Evolution and Decline of Sports All-Star Games In this episode of the Fanalytics podcast, the host delves into the history and current state of All-Star games in sports, with a primary focus on the NBA and MLB. The discussion includes an analysis of the decline in viewership and relevance of these events. The podcast contrasts the historical significance and popularity of All-Star games with their current lackluster reception, highlighting reasons such as over-commercialization and lack of player motivation. The episode also features a deep dive into the origins of the MLB All-Star game, its cultural impact during the Great Depression, and the NBA's attempt to innovate its All-Star weekend festivities. Finally, the host examines the challenges in reviving the excitement and competitiveness of these once-iconic sports events. more at fanalytics.substack.com

The Super Bowl: A Cultural Extravaganza and Its Impact on Future Fandom In this episode of the Fanalytics podcast, host Mike Lewis explores the multifaceted cultural significance of the Super Bowl. He discusses its role in unifying America, its massive viewership, and its influence as the apex of popular content every year. The episode dissects the Super Bowl's impact on various aspects of culture including sports, gambling, advertising, and music, with a particular focus on the evolving status of teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. Additionally, Lewis delves into how gambling and advertising trends shape sports fandom and engagement, the strategies behind Super Bowl halftime shows, and the sustainability of football's dominance among newer generations. He concludes with an analytical look at the future of NFL fandom amidst cultural and demographic shifts. The article can be found at Fanalytics.substack.com

The Future of College Football Playoffs: Successes, Challenges, and Long-Term Implications In this episode of the Phantom Analytics Podcast, host Mike Lewis delves into the intricacies of the College Football Playoff system. He highlights the tremendous current success of the playoffs in terms of viewership and engagement, but raises critical questions about its long-term impacts. Key issues discussed include the effectiveness of the playoff system in identifying the best team, its potential to diminish regular season importance, and the effects of conference realignment. Mike also explores how the monetization of college football might alter its traditional structure and future. Finally, he announces the podcast's new online home at fanalytics.substack.com.

In the inaugural episode of 2025, host Mike Lewis, a professor at Emory University, dives into the future of fandom in the Fanalytics podcast. He discusses key factors such as technology, demographics, and marketing that will shape the evolution of fandom. Mike shares six predictions including shifts in college football, record-breaking viewership for pro and college football championships, the NBA's struggles, the decline in superhero movie popularity, the rise of Netflix in live-action sports, and potential setbacks in women's college basketball viewership. He also expresses hope for the success of Amazon Prime's Warhammer project starring Henry Cavill. Tune in for a comprehensive and analytical look at what's on the horizon for fandom in 2025.