#212: “Listen Hard and Learn Fast” Carlos Silva, President of Anthem Sports (TNA Wrestling)

In this episode of “Most People Don’t, But YOU DO!”,, Bart sits down with Carlos Silva, President of Anthem Sports & Entertainment, to explore leadership, learning, and the art of creating unforgettable experiences. From his early days as a Division I tennis player at Boston College, to earning a master’s degree in computer science, to leading major sports and media organizations, Carlos shares how curiosity, design thinking, and disciplined decision‑making shaped his career. He offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at growing TNA Wrestling, Invicta MMA, Fight Network, and Game+, while revealing why listening hard, learning fast, and caring deeply about people and experiences are at the heart of sustainable success.

Major Takeaways / Learnings

"Leadership is learned on the road, not on a straight path. Careers are built through timing, forks in the road, and willingness to adapt."

"Athletics build leadership instincts. Coaching, teamwork, resilience, and accountability translate directly into business leadership."

"Design drives experience. From tickets to TV graphics to arena energy, the smallest details shape how people feel."

"There are two audiences in live events. The in‑venue fan and the at‑home viewer both need intentional, tailored experiences."

"Listen hard and learn. Credibility comes from humility, presence, and learning from the people closest to the work."

"Make decisions quickly and adjust. Waiting for perfection slows growth — act, measure, refine, repeat."

"Strong teams outperform strong ideas. Hiring great people and trusting them creates momentum across organizations."

"Consistency builds confidence. Small daily disciplines compound into long‑term success."

Memorable Quotes

“Listen hard and learn.”

“No one likes to go to an empty restaurant — energy matters.”

“You don’t need perfection. You need a decision.”

“Every experience is built from a thousand small details.”

“If it doesn’t work, you change it tomorrow and move forward.”

“Consistency is one of the most powerful leadership tools.”
Why It Matters / How to Use It

This episode is a masterclass for leaders, creators, and builders who want to scale impact without losing humanity. Carlos Silva demonstrates that success isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about listening, learning, and continually improving the experience for people on both sides of the product. Whether you lead teams, design customer experiences, or manage complex organizations, the lessons here reinforce the power of curiosity, humility, and disciplined action. If you want to build momentum, stay grounded, and lead with confidence, this conversation offers a clear and practical roadmap.