⏱️ Timestamps
00:02 Meet Jen Leary: Building a Women's Sports Movement in Philly
00:53 The Birth of Watch Party PHL: From COVID Isolation to Community Hub
03:30 Overcoming Doubt: Jen's Journey from Past Startup to Women's Sports Advocate
04:54 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Creating a Welcoming Space for All Sports Fans
06:29 Building Community: Creating a Safe and Inclusive Space for Women's Sports
09:26 Vision for the Future: Building a Women's Sports Hub Beyond a Bar
11:56 From Watch Parties to a Hub: Securing Investment and Building the Dream
15:26 Securing Investment: Building a Strong Team and Showcasing Authenticity
19:51 Navigating Business Logistics: Team Building, Planning, and Investor Relations
23:09 Philly's W-N-B-A Team: Preparing for the Future of Women's Sports
26:51 Building Community Through Social Media: Jen's Tips for Success
31:38 Sustainability in Women's Sports: Balancing Passion with Career
33:28 The Future of Watch Party PHL: Remaining Authentic to Philly's Culture
34:04 Basketball's Impact: Finding Community and Making New Friends
35:05 Advice for Launching a Sports Business: Build Trust and Community First
36:46 Going Viral: How a Shirt Became a Symbol of Philly's Women's Sports Scene
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Business of Basketball, host Misha Horsey sits down with Jen Leary, founder of Watch Party PHL — Philadelphia’s first women’s sports bar and community hub.
What started as small monthly watch parties quickly became a city-wide movement. Jen has raised nearly $100,000 in crowdfunding, earned Best of Philly 2025, and is preparing to launch a permanent hub in spring 2026 — all while helping position Philly for the arrival of its new WNBA team in 2030.
Together, Misha and Jen break down the mindset, strategy, and business behind turning a passion for women’s sports into a sustainable brand and thriving community.
🔑 You’ll Learn
How to turn an idea into a movement – from grassroots events to a recognized brand.
The business behind women’s sports culture – what it takes to build something sustainable.
Why Philly is ready for its WNBA moment – and how Watch Party PHL is shaping that future.
🧠 Episode Highlights
The moment Jen realized Philly needed a women’s sports space.
The power of community funding and authentic storytelling.
Why basketball and the WNBA are leading the women’s sports movement.
How to pitch investors and position your vision for long-term success.
What to expect from the Watch Party PHL Hub launching in 2026.
👇 Connect with Jen Leary
🌐 Website: watchpartyphl.com
📸 Instagram: @watchpartyphl
