In this episode of the Sports Business Classroom Audio Experience, VSL alum Alex Cocoros sits down with Gotham Chopra, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and creative force behind Man in the Arena with Serena Williams. Growing up immersed in Boston sports and inspired by his father’s work as a writer, Gotham has always seen sports as a gateway to something bigger—human stories of greatness, struggle, and purpose. Over the years, he’s become a trusted voice in athlete-driven storytelling, capturing the lives of figures like Tom Brady, Conor McGregor, and LeBron James. In this conversation, Gotham opens up about what it takes to earn an athlete’s trust, how the storytelling process has evolved in the streaming era, and why mental health and vulnerability are becoming central themes in today’s sports documentaries.
In this episode, they dive into:
- How to earn trust with top athletes and turn that into authentic storytelling
- Why great characters (and their complications) are the heart of any documentary
- How mental health and player empowerment are reshaping the documentary space
- His next project with Tom Brady in London, documenting the rebuild of a soccer team
Gotham shares how working closely with athletes requires more than just access; it demands empathy, communication, and a shared willingness to explore the human side of greatness. Whether he’s filming in London with Tom Brady or navigating creative dynamics with Bon Jovi, Gotham emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with dependable collaborators and staying aligned through a shared vision. For aspiring storytellers and sports professionals alike, this episode offers an inside look at the craft of impactful storytelling—and a reminder that the best stories aren’t just about sports, but about what it means to push beyond limits.
