MEET OUR TEAM

Founder, President &
Chairman 

John Roe is a visionary entrepreneur and investor with a profound track record of successfully executing business ideas and seizing opportunities. His journey with SportsBug™ began in the 1980s when he licensed a wireless self-contained AM radio that could fit on your ear with MLB, showcasing his foresight into the potential of enhancing the live sports experience. Although ahead of his time then, the advent of modern communication technologies and AI has now positioned SportsBug™ to become a revolutionary addition for sports fans.

Residing in Stonington Borough, Connecticut, John balances his professional endeavors with his personal life, being married to Lesley and father to Victoria. As a founder, principal partner, and investor in multiple companies, he has harnessed his deep knowledge and experience to assemble a world-class team of technologists, industry experts, executives, advisers, and consultants, all geared towards the successful launch of SportsBug™.

John’s entrepreneurial ventures span various industries. He is the founder and CEO of Smarter Technologies LLC, focusing on controlled environment agriculture and zero carbon footprint operations. Additionally, his tenure as CEO of Armor Technology Consultants and Broadcast Live Technologies, along with leadership roles at several other firms, highlights his versatility and commitment to innovation. His extensive experience in sales, business development, and green energy technologies further underscores his capability to lead SportsBug™ to new heights.

John Roe’s enduring focus on communications technologies and his ability to organize and lead top-tier teams make him exceptionally suited for his role at SportsBug™, driving the company’s mission to transform the live sports experience for fans worldwide.

CEO & Board Member

Patrick Seaman is an accomplished C-level executive, futurist, and startup specialist, renowned for his pivotal role as employee #1 at Broadcast.com, the first multi-billion-dollar streaming media startup under the leadership of Mark Cuban. Patrick’s instrumental contributions to Broadcast.com’s development and its historic $5.4 billion merger with Yahoo! highlight his unparalleled expertise in navigating the complexities of the tech startup ecosystem.

With a career spanning multiple sectors, Patrick has consistently leveraged his strategic vision to drive innovation and growth. At GenH2, he served as CIO and EVP of Industrial Systems, leading groundbreaking initiatives in Hydrogen Liquefaction Storage and Transfer. His leadership during the pandemic at GrowCo Capital and MasVida Health & EMist showcased his adaptability and commitment to impactful innovation, particularly in guiding patented electrostatic disinfection technology through global supply chain challenges.

In the streaming media domain, Patrick’s expertise was further solidified through significant roles at Ole’ Media and Deer Channel, where he enhanced digital strategy and user engagement with OTT, IPTV, and VOD technologies. As COO/CTO of WhichBox Media, he developed a cloud-based CMS and User Engagement SaaS Platform, demonstrating his ability to lead complex technological projects from inception to successful implementation.

Patrick’s extensive experience also includes his role as Chief Technology Advisor at Pepperwood Partners, where he provided strategic guidance on technology and business development for private equity investments. His leadership in video eCommerce at Cinsay and his pioneering efforts in online audiobook publishing at Timberwolf Press further underscore his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. With a strong foundation in both the technical and strategic aspects of business, Patrick Seaman is exceptionally suited to lead SportsBug™.

His rich background in streaming media, clean energy, healthcare, and private equity positions him as a key driver of SportsBug™’s mission to revolutionize the live sports experience through cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions.

COO

Chuck Bortnick brings over three decades of extensive experience in media operations, business development, and strategic partnerships to his role as Chief Operating Officer at SportsBug™. His illustrious career spans high-level executive roles in renowned media companies, showcasing his expertise in driving growth and innovation.

Chuck’s background includes Chief Operating Officer at Westwood One, where he managed over 2,500 employees and negotiated deals with major media brands, overseeing content and marketing solutions for over 2,000 stations.

At Metro Networks, Chuck progressed from Regional Vice President to President and COO, helping build the company into a national powerhouse with over $250 million in revenue in 75 markets. He helped launch the successful IPO of the company and later was a key resource in the sale of the company to Westwood One.

Additional roles included As Vice President and General Manager at WFAN, where he managed one of the country’s most successful radio stations. Regional Vice President at Cumulus Media, where he managed operations and revenue for 35 diverse radio stations, driving business growth through customized local marketing solutions. As Executive Vice President at SparkNet Communications, Chuck expanded the JACK radio brand in over 40 markets, enhancing revenue potential for station owners.

During his tenure as Senior Vice President at Gen Media Partners, Chuck led the company into the network radio business, contributing to the acquisitions of Sun Broadcast Group and Envision Radio Networks. His role involved strategic partnerships and sales initiatives that significantly boosted the firm’s market presence.

As the founder of AIDEM Group LLC, a media consulting firm, Chuck has honed his skills in media business development and monetization strategies. His leadership at Game On Media Solutions LLC involved providing unique brand representation solutions, including video sponsorship and sports marketing.

Chuck Bortnick’s extensive background in media strategy, sales, and operations management, combined with his innovative approach to business growth, makes him a vital asset to SportsBug™. His leadership will drive the company’s mission to revolutionize the live sports experience and enhance fan engagement through cutting-edge technology.

 Chief Legal Officer 

Sherman Swartz is a seasoned attorney with a distinguished career spanning over two decades, specializing in a wide range of legal disciplines. He holds a Juris Doctorate from Baylor University School of Law and a B.B.A. in Administrative Management from the University of North Texas.

Sherman’s extensive legal expertise includes roles as chief legal officer, counsel, and of counsel for various businesses, addressing complex issues in state and federal courts for clients ranging from individuals to Fortune 50 companies. His areas of proficiency encompass analytics, distribution agreements, procurements, online advertising sales, IP and online issues, telemarketing, franchise and licensing, labor and employment, construction, publishing, and more. He has also managed compliance with Federal and State regulations, including FTC and FCC rules, and secured customer data.

In his diverse career, Sherman has held significant positions that highlight his extensive legal expertise. As an Attorney at Law, he has handled a wide array of business and consumer legal matters, demonstrating his problem-solving skills and ability to coordinate internal and external issues. As Chief Legal Counsel at SoftBank Robotics US, he oversaw all legal aspects of the corporation’s US operations, particularly those related to sales and support of robotics. At Yahoo.com/Broadcast.com, Sherman assisted founders Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban with legal issues during the early stages of online radio broadcasting innovation. In his roles as Inside and Outside Counsel for Verizon and GTE, he supported ILEC and CLEC operations, managed online sales, B2B marketing, and various agreements. Additionally, Sherman has provided legal services to notable companies such as Marriott International, Micron Technology, Ford Motor Company, HP Hood LLC, and Enphase Energy, negotiating and managing national and international issues across various sectors.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sherman is deeply involved in public service. He has provided free legal aid seminars, pro bono work for charities, and has been an active member of the Texas State Bar College and the Pro Bono College of the Texas State Bar. His leadership roles include serving as the past Director and President of the Flower Mound Bar Association and the Executive Director Emeritus of the National RFID Institute.

Sherman Swartz’s comprehensive legal background, coupled with his commitment to public service and problem-solving acumen, make him an invaluable asset to SportsBug™. His extensive experience in navigating complex legal landscapes will be instrumental in guiding the company through its growth and innovation in the sports technology sector.

Director of Broadcast Programming & Content 

Ed Randall is a seasoned sports broadcaster with an illustrious career spanning radio, television, and multimedia platforms. Known for his passion for baseball and commitment to excellence, Ed has become a respected figure in the sports broadcasting industry.

As a regular contributor to MLB Network’s anthology shows, Ed delivers insightful analysis and engaging content to baseball enthusiasts. His popular Sunday morning radio program, “Ed Randall’s Talking Baseball,” on New York’s WFAN-Radio, has become a staple for fans, players, and experts alike. Additionally, he co-hosts the nationally acclaimed show “Remember When” on Sirius/XM Radio’s MLB Network Radio channel, where he shares captivating stories from baseball’s rich history. Ed’s role in MLB.com’s multimedia department further solidifies his significant impact on the sport.

Beyond his broadcasting achievements, Ed’s life story is equally compelling. He spent seven years as a playby-play broadcaster in minor league baseball, honing his craft and building a vast network of connections. In 2008, Ed stepped into the iconic Yankee Stadium as the public address announcer, succeeding the legendary Bob Sheppard. However, it was his battle with prostate cancer that truly transformed his life. Inspired by his personal experience, Ed founded Fans for the Cure, a non-profit charity dedicated to raising awareness and educating men about this prevalent disease.

Ed Randall’s unique blend of expertise, resilience, and compassion makes him an invaluable asset to SportsBug™. His extensive experience in broadcasting, coupled with his dedication to excellence and community service, exemplifies the leadership and purpose that will drive SportsBug™ to new heights in the sports media landscape.

Director of Team/Rightsholder Partnerships

Joe Skladany brings a wealth of experience in sports marketing and sales to SportsBug™, with a career that spans professional teams, national advertisers, and grassroots-level marketing campaigns. His impressive portfolio includes significant achievements with major sports organizations and national media companies.

Joe’s early career highlights include his tenure with the Arizona Wranglers of the USFL, where he was part of the team that sold stadium signage, season/group tickets, and player appearances, contributing to the Wranglers’ record-setting opening day crowd. At KATZ National Radio Representatives, Joe oversaw national sales for the radio flagship stations of 18 MLB, 15 NFL, and over 100 college teams, growing the budget from $30 million to $50 million in two years by creating the innovative concept of “unwired sports networks.”

At CBS Radio Sports, Joe managed national sales efforts for CBS-owned radio stations, including flagship stations for MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, and college teams. He successfully created and sold the “MLB Unwired Sports Radio Network,” encompassing all MLB teams. As Sports Marketing Director at WCCO Radio in Minneapolis, Joe doubled revenues over two years and spearheaded the creation of the “Unwired Network for Big Ten Sports.”

Joe’s success continued at WGST Radio in Atlanta, where he grew revenues from $4 million to over $12 million in two years by overseeing play-by-play broadcasts for the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks. As the founder and CEO of C.H.A.M.P.S, Inc., Joe perfected the concept of matching “Product with Programming,” implementing multi-market campaigns for major brands like Sears, Kia Motors, and Mitsubishi Televisions, generating over $500 million in sports sponsorship sales.

Joe also served on the Board of Directors for MLB Rightsholders, researching new sponsors and sharing insights to boost team sales. His expertise as a sports marketing consultant has helped professional and college teams maximize their advertising sales revenues. Additionally, Joe produced and sold inventory for ESPN/Ft Myers’ “SWFL Game of the Week” and led marketing efforts for the Omaha Nighthawks of the UFL, driving league-leading attendance and merchandise sales.

Joe Skladany’s extensive experience and innovative approach to sports marketing make him an invaluable asset to SportsBug™, where he will forge and manage crucial partnerships to enhance the company’s reach and impact in the sports industry.

Director of Business Development 

Scott Wolff brings an unparalleled passion for sports and a wealth of experience in sales and business development to SportsBug™. Known from a young age as a “human sports encyclopedia” and a great statistician, Scott’s dedication to sports is matched by his commitment to delivering world-class customer service. This dedication has established him as an outstanding performer in numerous sales and business development roles throughout his career.

With 30 years of experience across a broad range of industries, Scott has honed his expertise in SaaS, data analytics, energy conservation (including LED lighting, HVAC, demand response, and building controls), training, and business process outsourcing. His proven sales leadership and innovative approach have enabled him to solve complex business challenges for clients while building critical networks between internal and external stakeholders.

Scott excels in providing the highest level of educational consulting for customers, listening to their challenges, and designing, building, and enabling strategies that address their needs. His top strengths— competence, innovation, communication, connectedness, and reliability—highlight his ability to deliver exceptional results consistently.

Scott’s passion for networking and relationship-building is a key asset in his role at SportsBug™, where he will leverage his extensive experience and deep understanding of the sports industry to drive business growth and enhance customer satisfaction. His strategic vision and customer-centric approach make him an invaluable addition to the SportsBug™ team, poised to contribute significantly to the company’s success in revolutionizing the live sports experience.

Director of Mobile/Streaming Development 

Matt Dwyer brings a unique and invaluable combination of skills to SportsBug™, honed over a decade of dual roles as a programmer for interactive applications and a radio broadcast technician and producer. This dual expertise positions Matt uniquely to advise and build the app and streaming infrastructure essential to SportsBug™’s mission of delivering real-time, lag-free audio to sports fans.

Matt’s extensive broadcast experience spans various high-profile sports events, including production, on-air, and technical roles for the AFL (Australian Football League), the Australian Open tennis tournament, and horse racing events. His comprehensive understanding of the broadcasting industry’s demands and intricacies ensures that SportsBug™’s streaming solutions are robust and user-centric.

In the IT sector, Matt’s career has encompassed a wide range of roles, from working in IBM’s mainframe division to developing solutions for the Victorian state government’s tourism departments and vocational education providers. He has also contributed to the largest plant nursery supply chain marketplace in Australia and small business e-commerce platforms, showcasing his versatility and technical prowess.

Combining his technical skills with a passion for live sports, Matt has achieved a significant milestone by “cracking the code” for real-time, no-delay live streaming over 5G mobile data. This breakthrough positions SportsBug™ at the forefront of sports broadcasting technology, offering fans an unparalleled live sports experience.

With his deep knowledge of both IT and broadcasting, Matt Dwyer is perfectly equipped to lead the development of SportsBug™’s cutting-edge mobile and streaming technologies, driving innovation and ensuring the highest quality experience for sports fans worldwide.

Director of Back-End Development 

V.J. Patel brings a comprehensive IT portfolio to SportsBug™, drawing on three decades of diverse experience across multiple tech roles and consulting positions. His career spans an impressive range from agile startups to Fortune 50 enterprises, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in various sectors, including manufacturing, transportation, insurance, financial services, and energy.

Throughout his extensive career, V.J. has mastered numerous programming languages and specialized functions such as database and network administration, system architecture, and operations research. His deep technical expertise is complemented by his innovative approach to problem-solving, particularly evidenced by his recent work in pioneering advanced cloud-based solutions to address complex mathematical challenges within the transportation sector.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, V.J.’s passion for athletics drives his commitment to SportsBug™. His “sports nut” zeal, combined with his technical acumen, fuels his dedication to enhancing the sports fan experience through innovative back-end solutions. V.J.’s broad skill set and unwavering enthusiasm make him an invaluable asset to the SportsBug™ team, where his contributions are pivotal in developing the robust, scalable infrastructure that underpins the company’s cutting-edge streaming technology.

Director of Marketing 

Carol McMillan Lewis brings over three decades of director-level management with world-class brands in her role as Director of Marketing at SportsBug™.

Her career in advertising has been devoted to being a key innovator, negotiator, creator, communicator and collaborator with all stakeholders to deliver the absolute best results. Her agency leadership experience includes McKinney, Grey Advertising-Los Angeles, and others; and her corporate marketing leadership experience includes John Deere and Alliance Pharma.

Her expertise includes strategic planning, research, marketing plan strategy/execution, media planning/buying, sales development/tracking, stakeholder communications, training and staffing on behalf of major brands with marketing budgets of up to $200 million.

A key component of her advertising media strategy and investment has been in sports marketing, which is a core driver of interest among a very high percentage of consumer target audiences. She has negotiated millions of dollars of successful sports sponsorship investments on behalf her clients.

In today’s ever-changing media landscape, identifying new media opportunities (e.g. AI) and ensuring that the brand is applying these throughout all initiatives to drive maximum results is Carol’s focus. Building omnichannel marketing plans to effectively grow the customer base AND retain customers via the most advanced channels is key. (She’s been leading and executing digital advertising for 25+ years.)

Carol is inspired to be a part of the super SportsBug™ team to translate market data, product and innovation plans into strategies that drive affinity and demand for SportsBug™. Her continual goal is for aligned marketing and sales to build partnerships, execute campaigns, measure return, adjust nimbly and build the SportsBug™ brand to benefit all partners in the rapidly growing sports media world.

Julian Jackson 

James White 

International Partners

 Julian is a media content expert with over 30 years of success in the Asian content industry, delivering results for rights holders and broadcasters, founding a branded content company, and judging for the Asian Television and Creative Awards. 

 James has over 30 years of innovation in the Asian region, excelling in sponsorship, events, and activation for sports and entertainment brands, with a deep understanding of both rights holders and brands, developed through roles at IMG, TSA, FIBA Marketing, NBL Asia, and SCTV. 

SportsBug’s international growth will be significantly accelerated through a strategic partnership with ResultX Group, led by Julian and James. With over 50 years of combined experience in sales and sports broadcasting, ResultX Group excels in helping companies tap into direct-to-consumer (D2C) real-time engagement and expand into new markets. Their expertise in launching products across Asia and other regions allows SportsBug to save time and resources while benefiting from their vast network and strategic insights. Julian and James are committed to the platform’s success, making this partnership a key driver of SportsBug’s global expansion. 

 Digital Media Manager

Truly Clark, a native of the Outer Banks of North Carolina and a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, brings a diverse skill set and extensive experience in broadcasting, audio, and web design to her role at SportsBug™. While attending the University of North Carolina, a university renowned for its excellence in various sports programs, Truly played in the Tar Heel marching band and traveled with the teams to numerous sports events, fostering her passion for sports and media.

After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, Television, and Motion Pictures, Truly completed a Writer’s Guild internship with the acclaimed shows Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Her contributions to these shows earned her story credits for Deep Space Nine, showcasing her talent in content creation and screenwriting. Her passion for music and audio led her to specialize in audio engineering, earning a Pro Tools certification.

Truly’s professional journey includes working in tape operations for SAS in Cary, NC, and various freelance roles in audio, video, and web design. Since moving to Connecticut in 2007, she has accumulated over 15 years of experience in print production, coordination, and graphic design. This extensive background in multimedia production has equipped Truly with a comprehensive skill set that she now applies to her role at SportsBug™.

At SportsBug™, Truly combines her expertise in web and print design with her background in broadcasting and audio to build a dynamic multimedia platform. Her work is pivotal in enhancing the sports experience for fans, bringing together her diverse talents to create engaging and interactive content for sports enthusiasts. Truly Clark’s multifaceted experience and passion for sports media make her an invaluable asset to the SportsBug™ team.