17 Jul July 17, 2025 – $2.5 Billion Sale Jeff Webb and Problem Solver w Radical Generosity Mark Young
Jeff Webb – Founder of Varsity Spirit & President of International Cheer Union
We eventually called it the heart and fist… We were very competitive…
sharp elbows, legally of course. But we also had the heart—for our
customers, the young athletes, and our employees. We expect their
best, but we’ve got their back when they need us.
Jeff Webb
Jeff Webb, a highly accomplished entrepreneur, author, and CEO, was born and raised in Shelby County, Tennessee. He is widely recognized for founding Varsity Brands and serving as its CEO until 2018, later acting as chairman until 2020. Webb launched Varsity Spirit in 1974, which evolved into a global leader in cheerleading and dance education. Today, he continues to shape the sport as the founder and president of the International Cheer Union (ICU), the recognized worldwide governing body for cheerleading. Under his leadership, the ICU has grown to represent over 7.4 million athletes globally. In addition to his impact on cheerleading, Webb is the senior news editor and co-publisher of Human Events, a Washington, D.C.-based political news and analysis platform. He played a pivotal role in acquiring The Post Millennial for the publication in 2022. Academically, Webb holds a degree in political science and government from the University of Oklahoma, where he was an active campus leader and cheerleader. His early involvement with the National Cheerleaders Association set the foundation for his career. Webb has also served as chairman of Herff Jones and has remained active in charitable efforts, including long-standing support for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Special Olympics, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Outside of his professional and philanthropic pursuits, Webb enjoys sailing, conservation, duck hunting, and unicycling. He is the author of the best-selling book American Restoration: How to Unchain the Great Middle Class, and continues to advocate for the potential of America’s middle class. Residing in Memphis with his Labrador Retriever, Webb remains deeply connected to his Tennessee roots while maintaining a prominent presence on the national and international stage.
Mark Young – Chief Executive Officer at Ryze Agency and Author of
For the successful entrepreneurs in the world, they’re not focused on the
money. They’re focused on solving the problem. And I think if we really
approach the world from that angle, the money follows.
Mark Young
Mark Young is a serial entrepreneur, educator, and the CEO of Ryze Agency, a Fort Lauderdale-based marketing and advertising firm that helps entrepreneurs elevate their brands. With a career that defies a linear path, Mark is a collector of experiences—constantly seeking, learning, and challenging the status quo. His life philosophy? “Do everything.” From launching tech startups to reverse-engineering complex business strategies, Mark thrives on solving problems and sharing his knowledge with others. With multiple graduate degrees across disciplines (including a MENSA membership acquired on a dare), his greatest passion lies not in accolades, but in teaching, mentoring, and empowering those around him. Above all, Mark believes in the power of people. Whether in business, mentorship, or global adventures, he values the connections he makes, always leading with generosity and integrity. As he often says, “People matter. Do the right thing, regardless of the cost. It’ll come back to you. I promise.”