Kim was so sweet to have the interview with me while on the road driving between North Carolina and Washington. She’s starting her new position at the helm of Washington’s NWSL team, and I plan to follow her success for years to come. Very grateful for her straight-to-the-point advice, and I tried to summarize her answers to my interview questions below:

What did you study in college, and how did your educational background shape your career in business?

Kim Stone studied journalism and public relations at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This educational background provided her with strong communication skills and a foundation in public relations, which opened doors to numerous opportunities in the sports industry. She started her career as an assistant sports information director (PR marketing) for the Miami Heat’s PR department and later pursued an Executive MBA at the University of Miami, which further equipped her with business acumen essential for her roles in sports management.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to and running the Washington Spirit?

Ms. Stone’s career spans nearly three decades in the professional sports industry. She held various roles at the Miami Heat, including overseeing business operations and managing the American Airlines Arena (now Kaseya Center). She was instrumental in launching the Chase Center for the Golden State Warriors and served as President of UBS Arena in New York. These roles showcased her strong leadership and operational skills. In 2024, she became the CEO of the Washington Spirit, marking a significant milestone in her career.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman serving as a president of a sports team, a job traditionally held by men?

Ms. Stone acknowledges that the sports industry still retains an old-school mentality, but she notes that positive changes are occurring. Respect for women in the industry is increasing, although there is still a perception among some men that they know more. Navigating these challenges requires resilience and a strong commitment to fostering inclusivity and equality in the workplace.

Balancing a busy career can be demanding. How do you manage work-life balance, and what strategies have worked well for you?

She values harmony between work and family, finding herself fortunate to have a family that shares her love for sports. She emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and effective communication to maintain balance. These strategies help her manage the demands of a busy career while ensuring she remains connected with her family.

Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career? How important is mentorship for women in business?

Ms. Stone stresses the importance of mentorship, highlighting that different perspectives and experiences are invaluable. She has had several mentors throughout her career, including a president of the Miami Heat. Mentorship has provided her with guidance, support, and insights that have been crucial for her professional growth.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in sports management?

She notes that while there are opportunities for women in the sports industry, top-level positions still lack adequate representation. Her own career progression underscores the existing challenges and the gradual improvements. To promote gender equality, she believes in fostering an inclusive culture, providing mentorship opportunities, and implementing policies that support diversity in leadership roles.

How do you stay updated on industry trends, and what advice do you have for staying relevant in a rapidly evolving business landscape?

Ms. Stone advises reading industry publications, networking, and staying updated with business news and podcasts to remain informed about the industry and its trends. Staying involved and continuously learning are key to staying relevant in the rapidly evolving business landscape.

What advice do you have for young women like myself aspiring to build a successful career in the sports side of business?

She points out that there are now more opportunities and competition for women in various categories within the sports industry. Ms. Stone encourages starting careers with an open mind and working under great leaders to gain valuable experience. Being willing to take on diverse roles and learning from every opportunity is crucial for building a successful career.

What aspects of your work in the women’s Soccer industry do you find most fulfilling, and how do you hope to contribute to the industry’s growth and positive impact?

For Ms. Stone, the most fulfilling aspect of her job is having a full stadium, with 12,000 fans attending games. She aims to make a lasting impact through her work by enhancing fan experiences and contributing to the growth of women’s soccer. She hopes to see the sport gain more recognition and success, with more stars emerging and drawing significant corporate support.

Where do you see Women’s Soccer 5, 10, and 20 years from now here in the United States?

Ms. Stone hopes to see US stadiums averaging 15,000 to 20,000 fans in the future. She envisions greater success in women’s soccer, with mega stars drawing large crowds and significant corporate support. Her goal is to elevate the sport to new heights and ensure its sustainability and popularity continue to grow.

Any fun facts about you that you’d like to share (i.e., favorite foods, hobbies, interesting facts, etc.)?

Ms. Stone enjoys BBQ and has certified herself as a BBQ judge. Although she has not yet judged a contest, this hobby reflects her diverse interests outside of her professional life. This fun fact showcases her love for food and her willingness to explore new experiences beyond her career.