Building and Scaling Brands Through Product Storytelling & PR Strategy

Kyle Whatnall Keynote Speech Chapman University Commencement 2025

Sports marketing leader specializing in PR and product marketing — blending brand & product strategy with data-driven storytelling to drive measurable growth.

Brands & Media I’ve Worked With

  • ESPN

  • Wall Street Journal

  • Sports Illustrated

  • National Football League

  • PGA TOUR

  • Major League Soccer

  • Dude Perfect

  • Tesla

About Me

I help scale sports startups into nationally recognized brands by bridging product marketing, PR, and go-to-market strategy.

As one of the first hires at Selkirk Sport, I helped lead the company to 1900% revenue growth and 30+ successful product launches — building the brand and product marketing systems that powered its rise.

Previously, I led PR campaigns for NFL, MLS, and Caesars Sportsbook, securing national coverage across ESPN, WSJ, and Sports Illustrated.

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PR & Communications

I’ve built communications strategies for athletes and brands, leading press operations, crisis management, and national media outreach. At Selkirk, I launched the company’s first PR function — securing 50+ national placements per year and features in ESPN, The Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, and more.

Case Studies

Startup Growth & Brand Building

I helped drive 1900% revenue growth at Selkirk, scaling from 5 to 175 employees — building Costco and Dick’s partnerships, shaping product input, and integrating AI-driven marketing strategies.

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Athlete Marketing & Partnerships

I’ve negotiated contracts, scouted international talent, and managed pro athlete relationships to build winning rosters that drive both performance and visibility.

Speaking & Thought Leadership

I’ve represented brands, athletes, and clients on some of the biggest stages — from keynote speaking at Chapman University to managing athlete press tours and supporting retail partnerships. With experience spanning PR, product marketing, and startup growth, I bring a trusted voice to media, events, and brand storytelling.

Keynote Speaker

Chapman University Commencement (2025)

Brand Representation

On-site PR & marketing support for PGA TOUR, NASCAR, NFL, NHL, MLS, Caesars Sportsbook, MGM Resorts, and more.

Media Spokesperson

Client and brand media interviews featured in ESPN, Sports Business Journal (SBJ), and more.

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Thought Leadership

Panelist and podcast guest on PR, athlete marketing, & AI in marketing – helping teams explore the next evolution of brand storytelling.

Let's Connect

Let's Connect

Interested in connecting about brand growth, PR, or product strategy?

Whether you’re a brand partner, founder, or athlete, I’d love to connect.

Let’s talk about how we can build something great together — from scaling startups to shaping new product launches.