Episode Description
In this episode of SuperPerformers, host Rob Herman speaks with Jeff Berding, president and co-CEO of FC Cincinnati, about his journey from civic leadership to co-founding and leading one of Major League Soccer’s most successful expansion teams. From his early days working on Capitol Hill and serving on Cincinnati’s City Council to transforming the city’s sports landscape, Berding shares insights on entrepreneurship, community development, and building a winning organization from the ground up.
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Episode Summary
Jeff Berding’s career exemplifies the intersection of civic leadership and sports business innovation. The episode begins with his roots as a fifth-generation Cincinnatian and first-generation college graduate, shaped by his Jesuit education’s “men for others” philosophy. Berding details his path from political roles in DC and Cincinnati to 19 years as a Bengals executive, before identifying the opportunity to bring major league soccer to Cincinnati.
The conversation explores how Berding developed FC Cincinnati from a business plan into a record-breaking success, drawing unprecedented attendance for a third-division team before earning an MLS expansion bid in just four years. He shares critical insights about building the right ownership group, securing community support, and transitioning from entrepreneurial startup to mature organization. Berding discusses the challenges of constructing TQL Stadium during the pandemic and the club’s commitment to the West End neighborhood through the first-ever Community Benefits Agreement in Cincinnati’s history.
In the final segment, Berding reflects on his continued civic leadership, from championing a new downtown arena to serving on numerous community boards. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of persistence, authentic community engagement, and the unique role sports teams play in civic pride and unity.
“Sports teams have an obligation to lead, inspire, and unite. It’s not just a commercial transaction. Your love of your sports team, and the civic pride that they embody and represent, that’s something much more than just a commercial relationship.”
Podcast Description
The SuperPerformers podcast, powered by 4100FS, offers accessible insights from successful, driven leaders across various fields. Host Rob Herman engages guests from business, medicine, law, sports, entertainment, philanthropy, and other sectors to deliver compelling stories and valuable lessons from those who have achieved excellence in their fields.