Erika Ayers Badan, formerly known as Erika Nardini, is a successful businesswoman, producer and podcaster who has made a significant impact on Barstool Sports during her tenure as CEO.
She began at Barstool in 2016, shortly after it was acquired by The Chernin Group at a valuation of $15 million.
Under her leadership, Barstool’s marketing scale greatly expanded, and the company partnered with ESPN for its gambling app.
The Barstool brand has become mainstream, especially in the coveted 18-34 advertising demographic, with millions of followers across various social media platforms.
Background and career in advertising
Erika has an extensive background in advertising, having worked for Microsoft and AOL before joining Barstool Sports.
She won the Barstool gig over 74 male candidates and has been instrumental in the company’s growth and expansion.
Erika has been recognized by several high-profile media outlets for her success, including Fast Company, which named her one of the Most Creative People in Business in 2017.
Divorce and affair with Yvain “Swiss” Badan
Erika is married to Yvain “Swiss” Badan, a world-ranked pro squash player, and they have been together since 2018.
Erika and Swiss allegedly engaged in an affair while he was her squash instructor, which led to her divorce from her previous husband, Brett Nardini.
Erika has two children with Brett, Turin Jean Nardini and Cannon Gleason Nardini.
Role as CEO of Barstool Sports
Erika has been the CEO of Barstool Sports since 2016.
Under her leadership, the company has grown significantly, with deals with blue-chip brands such as Coors Lite and Pizza Hut.
The company was sold back to founder Dave Portnoy for $1 in August 2023 after the company was acquired by PENN Entertainment for a total of more than $450 million.
However, Erika’s departure from the company was announced in January 2024
Podcast, Token CEO, and its popularity
Erika is also a podcaster and has hosted the Token CEO podcast for Barstool Sports for years.
The podcast gives business advice to listeners and has been well-received.
Recognition in the media and the advertising industry
Erika has been recognized by several high-profile media outlets for her success, including Fast Company, which named her one of the Most Creative People in Business in 2017.
Departure from Barstool Sports and Future Plans
In January 2024, Erika announced that she would be stepping down from her role as CEO of Barstool Sports.
It is not immediately known what her next move will be.
However, she is leaving the company at a time when it is thriving, having been sold back to founder Dave.
Conclusion
Erika is a successful businesswoman who has made a significant impact on Barstool Sports during her tenure as CEO.
She has overcome personal scandals and has been recognized for her achievements in the industry.
While it is unclear what her next move will be, it is clear that she has left a lasting legacy at Barstool Sports.
FAQ
What led to Erika Ayers Badan’s departure from Barstool Sports?
Erika stepped down as CEO of Barstool Sports in January 2024, but it is not immediately known what her next move will be.
What is Erika Ayers Badan’s net worth?
Her net worth is not publicly known.
What is the controversy surrounding Erika Ayers Badan’s divorce and affair with Yvain “Swiss” Badan?
Erika allegedly engaged in an affair with Swiss while he was her squash instructor, which led to her divorce from her previous husband, Brett.
Swiss was also married at the time to Cynthia Badan, a local middle school teacher.
What is Erika Ayers Badan’s podcast, Token CEO, about?
Erika’s podcast, Token CEO, gives business advice to listeners and has been well-received.
What recognition has Erika Ayers Badan received in the media and advertising industry?
Erika has been recognized by several high-profile media outlets for her success, including Fast Company, which named her one of the Most Creative People in Business in 2017.
What is the story behind Erika Ayers Badan’s marriage to Yvain “Swiss” Badan?
The two allegedly engaged in an affair while he was her squash instructor, which led to her divorce from her previous husband, Brett.
Erika and Swiss eventually married, and Erika added his last name to her birth name, making her the Erika we know her as today.
What is the alleged cheating scandal involving Erika Ayers Badan?
In 2021, Page Six acquired the alleged inside scoop on Erika’s eventful love life.
In early April, a spy for the gossip outlet claimed they saw Erika “run out and kiss another man [who wasn’t her husband]. She seemed real excited to see the guy”.
What is the story behind Erika Ayers Badan’s divorce from Brett Nardini?
Erika allegedly engaged in an affair with Swiss while he was her squash instructor, which led to her divorce from her previous husband, Brett Nardini
What is the significance of Erika Ayers Badan’s departure from Barstool Sports?
She is leaving Barstool Sports at a time when it is thriving, having been sold back to founder Dave for $1 in August 2023 after the company was acquired by PENN Entertainment for a total of more than $450 million.
