Leadership Spotlight: Ryan Rottman of OSDB
OSDB: The Online Sports Database is a digital sports platform with the most extensive sports information on the web. The database is comprised a player’s stats and bio, their hobbies, business ventures, endorsement deals, charity affiliations, interests, contract information, representation information, and more. The database also includes world-class editorial content.
What’s is something unique about you that we won’t find on your resume?
I love meeting new people and building relationships. For me, it’s about being genuinely authentic – people can spot the real deal. I’ve found that 90% of it is just about listening. It’s surprising how much you can build by simply tuning in – rather than talking. Everyone has something to share, and giving them that space often leads to meaningful connections. Now, here’s a fun tidbit about me you won’t find on my resume: I can’t stand styrofoam. Call it a quirk, I just can’t stand the stuff.
Teach us a lesser-known or industry-insider insight that our email list readers might find intriguing or enlightening about your field?
The pro athlete community in some ways is similar to the special ops community. You have this elite community of a few hundred people who do what you do and understand you in a way that few can.
Within the industry, there is an unwritten rule of mutual respect that creates camaraderie. The blend of talent and the support of the tight knit community creates space for tor athletes to transition to other ventures after they hang their jerseys. Their ambitious and natural talent helps them excel at diversification.
Within the industry, there is an unwritten rule of mutual respect that creates camaraderie. The blend of talent and the support of the tight knit community creates space for tor athletes to transition to other ventures after they hang their jerseys.”
What is the most important business lesson you have learned in starting your company?
I get asked a lot of questions in pitch meetings and there are times I don’t know the answer. In general people pigeonhole themselves into what they think they should sound like in a meeting – even if they don’t know. I don’t like to pretend to save face. You can earn the respect of others if you show some humility and say “I don’t know that- but I will get the answer. I’ll get back to you.”
What are you reading right now? And why?
I love autobiographical books. Right now, I’m reading Shoe Dog by Nike Founder Phil Knight. Being a CEO is all about learning from others’ mistakes. I love reading stories of successful leaders I admire —what they’d change and the advice they share. I appreciate Knight’s work ethic and his daily life ethic – the way he gets up at 4:00 works out. gets the office and is done in time to be with his family – despite being the CEO of the largest companies in the world.
Favorite Quote
It’s an excerpt from a poem from Dylan Thomas – “Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”