Episode 538: Darren Heitner, Founder of Heitner Legal

Sports Business Secrets

Today’s guest is Darren Heitner, one of the most respected and influential voices in college sports, sports business, and the ever-evolving NIL landscape.

Darren wears many hats—he’s an attorney, author, college professor, and founder of Heitner Legal, which he established in 2014. Over the years, Darren has worked with some of the biggest names in sports, guiding them through pivotal moments and major deals.

Beyond his legal expertise, Darren has been a driving force in shaping the dialogue and policies surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness. Not only has he guided athletes and universities in groundbreaking NIL deals; he’s also a leading advocate for reform and a trusted source for decoding the complexities of this transformative era in college athletics.

Whether through his advocacy, teaching, or legal practice, Darren continues to leave an enduring mark on the industry, paving the way for athletes, institutions, and fans alike to navigate this exciting new chapter.

Today we talked about:

• Getting involved in the business early with a unique internship

• The infamous New Year's resolution that started it all

• The difference between an agent and a manager

• What prompted the launch of Heitner Legal

• Some of the services that he provides

• An update on the current NIL landscape

• Some common misconceptions & the need for education

• Brief overview of the House v NCAA Settlement

• What the future of college sports might look like...

• and much more

Appreciate you tuning in. Hope you enjoy!

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