Lisa Braun

Sr. Director, Social Media & Content Strategy for Cincinnati Reds

“Thank you, Lisa Braun, Sr. Director of Social Media & Content Strategy for the Cincinnati Reds, for sharing your story! Lisa oversees all content strategy, advertising, and media promotion for the Reds.

With a background in communications and media, plus earlier experience in radio, TV, and as VP of Promotion & Music Marketing at MTV, Lisa shifted into sports by taking a junior role to get her foot in the door.

She emphasizes confidence, presence, and empathy in every room, the importance of mentorship and networking, and finding balance in a 162-game season. Her favorite part? The fast-paced energy of sports and the people she gets to work with.”

– Zara

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position?

I oversee content strategy and execution of the organization’s social media, advertising and media promotion.

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

I studied Communications at Bowling Green State University with a emphasis on media. Social media didn’t exist when I was in college, but my education background taught me about creating content to appeal to a large audience successfully.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

Earlier in my career I working in radio and TV, including a previous position as Vice President of Promotion and Music Marketing for MTV. Attending sporting events was something I enjoyed doing in my free time, which ultimately lead me to changed careers. I took a more junior position in professional sports to get my foot in the door in the sports industry.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

No matter what type of business you work in, it’s important to always believe you belong in the room and what you say is important. Be present, be confident and remain empathetic.

​Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

Work-life balance is definitely a struggle when you work in social media for a sports with a 162-game season. Recharging becomes an offseason mission. But also working for an organization that recognizes the importance of adaquate staffing is a huge positive in being able to create work-life balance.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details?

Mentors can be an important part of growing your career. I’ve had women and men mentors that provided advice, support and championed my advancement in organizations. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to be your mentor and then make sure to pay it forward later in your career.

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 the sports industry?

I think women being given equal career opportunities varies by organization and department. I believe good organizations make sure every applicant has an equal chance of being hired and every employee has a fair opportunity for promotion.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

I love being able to take a minute and see the events that we have created. We create an environment where people come together no matter what their differences are to support a common interest (sports team, singer, etc.).

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

I really enjoy the fast paced, unpredictability of working in sports. I also enjoy the people I get to work with, which makes the job a lot more fun. The most challenging part is the non-stop, hectic schedule for 7-8 months a year.

What is your long-term personal goal that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

My advice: Always be building your network of contacts and connections in the sports industry. Do job shadows and internships. Find mentors and trusted advisors. Ask someone you admire professionally to lunch. Keep learning new skill. Pay attention to what other sports organizations are doing successfully.