Independent league baseball in New Jersey means thinking outside the boxes when it comes to promotions, but not so much when it comes to a sales mentality. Dave Marek has risen through the ranks of the Somerset Patriots for the past 17 seasons, becoming senior vice president of marketing. Marek discusses the ways in which the Patriots focus on a customer-first mindset, especially when it comes to establishing larger, more impactful group experiences. Marek talks about his experiences with promotions, including having Donald Trump delivering the first pitch via landing his helicopter on center field, and the ways in which to get a community excited for the product every summer. Twitter: @DMarek94

The Citadel is one of the most storied institutions in the United States, but growing its revenue for its athletic programs takes time and care. Assistant Athletic Director of Ticket Sales & Revenue Chris Baretta has helped transform the paradigm by building a sales training academy with interns and student workers. Leveraging his experience with the Seattle Seahawks & Sounders FC, Baretta discusses what he looks for in an academy candidate, as well as how he looks to strategically sell-out the house, including premium inventory. Baretta discusses the issue of discounting and complimentary tickets, as well as how to create a buying public in the rich-tradition of The Citadel athletic department. Twitter: @Chris_Baretta

NASCAR has few tracks that stand up to the legendary status of Talladega, which in racing lore may also be cursed in the minds of some drivers and racing fans. Josh Harris discusses how to sell a massive track in the Deep South, especially when all eyes go on one of the centerpieces in the state of Alabama annually. Not just for racing, but for tailgating culture, which can extend two entire weeks of "The Big One" in multiple speedway formats. At one time, Talladega boasted a seating capacity of 175,000. Harris talks about the current seating capacity of 80,000 and the strategy of filling it for each of the many races throughout the year.