The espnW: Women + Sports Summit returns to Ojai, California this week, bringing together athletes, executives and leaders across sports, business and entertainment to advance opportunities for women in sports. The three-day hybrid event — available in person and via free live stream on ESPN and espnW platforms — features a lineup that includes actor and Boston Legacy FC co-owner Elizabeth Banks, Olympic bronze medalist Ilona Maher and panels exploring investment, leadership and the intersection of sports and culture.
We spoke with Rachel Epstein, ESPN Vice President, Sports Marketing, and Susie Piotrkowski, ESPN Vice President, Women’s Sports Programming & espnW, about how the Summit continues to inspire action and shape the women’s sports landscape.
How does the Summit showcase initiatives to expand access and equity for female athletes?
Rachel: The Summit’s mission is to create change and opportunity for women in sports, and every part of the program supports that. We spotlight athletes, leaders and innovators driving progress — on the field, in boardrooms and through investment. It’s also a moment to highlight how ESPN and our partners are helping expand access and visibility for women’s sports across the industry.
What role does programming at the Summit play in inspiring attendees to take action?
Rachel: Each year, our goal is for attendees to leave energized to make an impact in their own spaces. The sessions are designed to be timely, relevant and wide-ranging — so that everyone, whether they’re in sports, business or entertainment, walks away with ideas and connections they can put into action.
How does feedback from the Summit shape ESPN’s long-term strategy?
Susie: We are only as good as our lived experience and the Summit gives us an opportunity to listen, learn and collaborate with some of the most knowledgeable and impactful women in the business. Our Women’s Sports strategy is anchored in mainstreaming Women’s sports across our established ecosystem. The expertise of those in attendance helps us to sharpen our approach and keep us at the forefront of that movement.
How does the Summit foster collaboration across industries?
Susie: It’s rare to be surrounded by so many women driving the future of sports. The Summit creates a space that produces the most authentic connection and conversation through collaboration which, is how the best ideas are born!
espnW has announced the full agenda and sponsors for the 2025 espnW: Women + Sports Summit taking place October 28-30 at the Ojai Valley Inn. Programming from this year’s Summit will also be live streamed across select espnW and ESPN digital and social platforms – virtual registration is free at https://espnwsummit.com.
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