The Future of AI and Sport: Alexis Ohanian & Aki Mandhar on Extraordinary Life Stories Live at IFS Unleashed
Extraordinary Life StoriesShow Notes
Recorded live on stage at IFS Unleashed in Orlando, Florida, this special episode of Extraordinary Life Stories features host John Reynolds in conversation with Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, founder of investment firm 776 and investor in pioneering technology companies, alongside Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea Women's FC. Together, they explore the future of AI, entrepreneurship, innovation and women's sport, asking how technology can unlock new opportunities and help build a lasting legacy. Alexis reflects on the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial journey, from learning to code as a teenager to building one of the world's most influential online communities. He shares why he believes we are entering one of the most exciting periods of technological change in his career, with AI creating unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors and innovators willing to challenge conventional thinking. Drawing on his experience investing in emerging technologies, including Anthropic, Alexis explores how AI is reshaping industries, changing the way we discover and consume information, and opening the door for people everywhere to turn ambitious ideas into reality. He also considers why, in an increasingly digital world, trust, authentic human connection and real-world experiences could become more valuable than ever. The conversation turns to one of Alexis's greatest passions: the future of women's sport. He explains the thinking behind his investments in Angel City FC and Chelsea Women's FC, and why he believes women's football represents a significant opportunity to rethink the traditional sports business model. Joining the discussion, Aki Mandhar shares her vision for Chelsea Women and explains how AI, data and technology are helping the club better understand its players, improve training and performance, and create more engaging experiences for supporters. From using data to inform player preparation to understanding what makes fans return, she explores how technology can help build a stronger, more sustainable future for women's football. Together, Alexis and Aki discuss the importance of staying curious, embracing change and using innovation to solve problems that once seemed impossible. They also consider how technology can support human potential, strengthen communities and inspire the next generation. Extraordinary Life Stories features candid conversations with the founders, leaders, athletes and innovators whose experiences reveal what it takes to achieve extraordinary things. Subscribe for more extraordinary conversations exploring the people, ideas and innovations shaping business, technology, sport and society. Extraordinary Life Stories is proudly sponsored by IFS.ai
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