Erika Ayers

Erika Ayers Badan is a distinguished American businesswoman currently serving as the CEO of Food52, a culinary and lifestyle brand. Her career began in the legal department of Fidelity Investments, where she honed her skills before transitioning to marketing. Ayers Badan held significant roles at major companies such as Microsoft, Yahoo!, and AOL, where she developed innovative marketing strategies that propelled brand visibility and engagement. Her leadership at Demand Media as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing further solidified her reputation as a powerhouse in the industry.

In 2016, Ayers Badan took on the role of CEO at Barstool Sports, where she transformed the company from a regional blog into a national media powerhouse. Under her leadership, Barstool’s valuation skyrocketed from $15 million to $450 million by 2020, marking a staggering 5,000% increase in revenue. She spearheaded the company’s expansion into multimedia, merchandising, and pay-per-view programming, including the acquisition of the Rough N’ Rowdy boxing league, which significantly diversified Barstool’s offerings.

Ayers Badan’s innovative approach earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Forbes’ Most Powerful Women in Sports and Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business. Her influence in the sports media landscape was further acknowledged when she was ranked among the most powerful figures in the industry by various publications, including The Big Lead and Crain’s New York.

After an impactful tenure at Barstool Sports, Ayers Badan transitioned to Food52 in 2024, where she continues to drive growth and innovation. She is also an accomplished author, with her book “Nobody Cares About Your Career” set to inspire professionals across industries. Beyond her corporate roles, Ayers Badan is a sought-after speaker and serves on several boards, including the Premier Lacrosse League, showcasing her commitment to leadership and community engagement.