This week 'On The Record' , The Sports Professor Rick Horrow sits down with owner of the Miami Dolphins, Stephen Ross. They discuss his upbringing, motivations as an NFL owner, the growth of Florida, and their shared fandom of the Dolphins. PLUS: Horrow breaks down the top issues of the week in sports business, including election ties to sports, shared reality in sports, and the growth of the NSWL.

Stephen Ross is a prominent American real estate developer, philanthropist, and sports team owner, best known as the owner of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. Born in 1940, Ross is the founder and chairman of Related Companies, a global real estate firm responsible for high-profile projects like the Hudson Yards development in New York City, one of the largest private real estate ventures in U.S. history. His estimated net worth, as of recent reports, is over $10 billion, placing him among the wealthiest sports team owners in the world.

Ross entered the sports industry in 2008 by acquiring a 50% stake in the Miami Dolphins and eventually gained full ownership of the team and Hard Rock Stadium. His investment in the stadium includes major renovations, making it a premier venue for events beyond the NFL, such as the annual Miami Open tennis tournament, international soccer matches, and concerts.

Beyond his sports investments, Ross is known for his philanthropy and social initiatives. He has donated millions to his alma mater, the University of Michigan, and has made significant contributions to the fields of education, arts, and health. Additionally, he is the founder of RISE (Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality), a nonprofit focused on addressing issues of racial equality and social justice through sports.