InsideOut Company Profile

Background

InsideOut is a Los Angeles-based independent event production company founded in 2004 by former world No.1 and Hall of Fame tennis player Jim Courier and former SFX and Clear Channel executive Jon Venison. The company specializes in producing and operating global sports and entertainment events, including The Pickleball Slam, Pro Padel League, and Major League Pickleball. In July 2025, InsideOut was acquired by GSE Worldwide, a leader in sports and entertainment marketing and talent management, marking GSE's first entry into event production.

Key Strategic Focus

InsideOut's strategic focus centers on creating and managing high-profile sports and entertainment events. The company's core objectives include expanding its portfolio of marquee events, enhancing live event production capabilities, and scaling operations into new markets. Key areas of specialization encompass event management, talent coordination, and audience engagement. The primary markets targeted are the United States and international venues hosting major sports and entertainment events.

Financials and Funding

Prior to its acquisition by GSE Worldwide, InsideOut was privately held. Specific details regarding the company's funding history, total funds raised, and notable investors are not publicly disclosed. The acquisition by GSE Worldwide in July 2025 signifies a strategic investment to bolster GSE's capabilities in large-scale, high-profile live event production.

Pipeline Development

InsideOut's key pipeline candidates include:

The Pickleball Slam: A premier pickleball event featuring top players.

Pro Padel League: A professional padel tennis league showcasing international talent.

Major League Pickleball: A league aimed at popularizing pickleball across the United States.

These events are in various stages of development, with ongoing efforts to expand their reach and impact. Specific timelines for anticipated milestones are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

InsideOut leverages advanced event management technologies to coordinate logistics, enhance audience engagement, and streamline operations. The company employs data analytics to assess event performance and inform strategic decisions. While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, InsideOut's innovative approach to event production sets it apart in the industry.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at InsideOut includes:

Jon Venison: President and Founder of InsideOut, Venison brings extensive experience in event production and talent management. Following the acquisition by GSE Worldwide, he joined GSE as Executive Vice President and Head of the newly created GSE Productions division.

Jim Courier: Co-founder of InsideOut, Courier is a former world No.1 and Hall of Fame tennis player, contributing his sports expertise to the company's operations.

Following the acquisition in July 2025, Jon Venison assumed the role of Executive Vice President and Head of GSE Productions, leading the integration and expansion of InsideOut's event production capabilities within GSE.

Market Insights and Dynamics

The sports and entertainment event production industry is characterized by a growing demand for live experiences, technological integration, and audience engagement. The market is expanding as new sports gain popularity and existing events seek innovative formats to attract larger audiences.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the event production industry include:

GSE Worldwide: A leader in sports and entertainment marketing and talent management, GSE expanded into event production with the acquisition of InsideOut.

IMG: A global leader in sports, events, media, and fashion, offering event management and production services.

Octagon: A sports and entertainment agency specializing in event management, talent representation, and marketing.

These competitors offer a range of services from event production to talent management, contributing to a dynamic and competitive landscape.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

InsideOut's acquisition by GSE Worldwide represents a significant strategic collaboration, enhancing GSE's event production capabilities and expanding its portfolio of sports and entertainment events. This partnership aims to leverage combined resources and expertise to deliver high-profile live experiences.

Operational Insights

InsideOut's integration into GSE Worldwide allows for the consolidation of event production resources, streamlining operations, and expanding market reach. The combined entity can leverage GSE's existing relationships and infrastructure to enhance event execution and audience engagement.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The acquisition by GSE Worldwide positions InsideOut to capitalize on GSE's global network and resources, enabling the scaling of existing events and the development of new properties. Future directions include exploring new sports and entertainment formats, expanding into additional markets, and leveraging technological innovations to enhance event experiences.