Leigh Steinberg from Steinberg Sports & Entertainment joined Roy Kessel and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at the Super Bowl. Leigh shared his insight into the evolving role of sports agents in philanthropy and community impact, emphasizing how athletes can use their platforms for positive change. With decades of experience representing top-tier athletes, including multiple No. 1 NFL draft picks, he discussed the importance of guiding players not just in their careers, but also in their efforts to give back to their communities through charitable initiatives.
Leigh Steinberg
Leigh Steinberg is a renowned sports agent, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, often credited as the real-life inspiration for the film “Jerry Maguire.” Born in Los Angeles in 1949, he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of California, Berkeley. Over his illustrious career spanning more than four decades, Steinberg has represented over 300 professional athletes across various sports, including eight No. 1 overall NFL draft picks—a record in the industry.
Beyond contract negotiations, Steinberg has been instrumental in guiding his clients to leverage their platforms for positive social impact, directing over $1 billion to charitable causes worldwide. He is also an accomplished author, with works like “Winning with Integrity” and “The Agent,” where he shares insights from his career and advocates for ethical practices in the sports industry.
Steinberg’s influence extends beyond individual representation; he has served as a consultant on various media projects, including films like “Any Given Sunday” and the television series “Arli$$,” contributing his expertise to portrayals of the sports industry in popular culture. His commitment to ethical representation and philanthropy has left an indelible mark on the sports agency profession, inspiring a generation of agents to prioritize both business success and social responsibility.
Steinberg Sports and Entertainment
Leigh Steinberg, often hailed as the real-life inspiration for the film “Jerry Maguire,” is a pioneering sports agent with a career spanning over four decades. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of California, Berkeley. Throughout his illustrious career, Steinberg has represented over 300 professional athletes across various sports, including a record eight No. 1 overall NFL draft picks. negotiations, Steinberg has been a fervent advocate for athletes leveraging their platforms for positive social impact. He has directed more than $1 billion to various charities worldwide, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. His philanthropic efforts have earned him commendations from multiple U.S. presidents and numerous organizations.
Steinberg is also an accomplished author, having penned best-selling books such as “Winning with Integrity” and “The Agent: My 40-Year Career Making Deals and Changing the Game.” His insights into ethical negotiations and the sports industry have made him a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences globally with stories from his career and practical advice on leadership and social responsibility.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – 0:18 – Roy Kessel welcomes Lee Steinberg, highlighting his pioneering work in brain health and concussions. Acknowledges Lee’s role in advocating for athlete safety and concussion awareness.
0:33 – 1:04 – In the 1980s, Lee represented many NFL quarterbacks who suffered repeated head injuries. Doctors had little knowledge or guidance on concussions, prompting Lee to take action.
1:08 – 1:17 – In 1994, Lee held the first concussion conference with Troy Aikman, Warren Moon, Steve Young, and Drew Bledsoe. Continued organizing these conferences to address growing concerns about brain health.
1:24 – 1:39 – In 2006, neurologists determined that three or more concussions drastically increase risks for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and CTE. Lee called it a “ticking time bomb” and an undiagnosed health epidemic.
1:59 – 2:11 – Recently established a concussion foundation to raise funds for research. Aims to support underserved communities with better brain health resources.
2:15 – 2:31 – Neuroplasticity research shows that neural feedback can help restore brain function after concussions. RTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is being explored as a treatment for brain injuries.
2:39 – 3:23 – Lee hosts a Brain Health Summit at his Super Bowl party, featuring two expert panels. The Brain Health Lounge showcases new technologies, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, stem cells, and red light therapy.
3:26 – 4:05 – Advances in brain health help athletes recover faster and improve peak performance. Research extends beyond sports, benefiting the general population.
7:02 – 8:06 – Lee has long encouraged athletes to give back to their communities. Mentions projects like Warrick Dunn helping families buy homes and Leonard Fournette’s advocacy against domestic violence.
10:29 – 11:06 – Lee discusses his newly launched Legacy Foundation focused on concussions.
