Todd Wagner Founder of the AudioNet company. Date of Birth: 02.08.1960 Country: USA

1. Biography of Todd Wagner
2. Early Life and Education
3. Career at Law Firms
4. Founding AudioNet
5. Broadcast.com and Success
6. Philanthropy and Todd Wagner Foundation
7. Minority Technology Fund and Entrepreneurship

Biography of Todd Wagner

Todd Wagner, born on August 2, 1960, in Indiana, is an American entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is best known as the founder of the company "AudioNet" (later renamed "Broadcast.com"), which revolutionized online broadcasting.

Early Life and Education

Wagner attended Indiana University, where he pursued a degree in law. During his time at the university, he became a member of the fraternity "Kappa Sigma." After completing his education, he relocated to Virginia and later to Dallas, Texas, where he began his career as a lawyer.

Career at Law Firms

Wagner's legal career took off with his work at prestigious law firms such as "Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld" and "Hopkins & Sutter." He honed his skills and gained valuable experience in the field of law.

Founding AudioNet

In 1995, Wagner teamed up with his university friend, Mark Cuban, to establish the company "AudioNet." The company specialized in live internet broadcasts of sports and other public events. Initially, the broadcasts were limited to owners of "Packard Bell 486 PC," but technological advancements quickly made these services accessible to millions.

Broadcast.com and Success

In 1998, Wagner and Cuban rebranded their company as "Broadcast.com." The company's stock skyrocketed, and in 1999, they made a historic deal selling "Broadcast.com" to the internet giant, "Yahoo!" for a staggering $5.7 billion. This deal instantly made Wagner a billionaire.

Philanthropy and Todd Wagner Foundation

In 2000, Wagner established the "Todd Wagner Foundation" with a focus on helping underprivileged children and small-scale entrepreneurs. The foundation provided support for various programs, including sports and cultural events for children. Chess schools, golf classes, and art and music workshops were among the initiatives funded by the foundation.

Minority Technology Fund and Entrepreneurship

Wagner also founded the "Minority Technology Fund," which aimed to finance emerging technology companies based in Dallas. Some of the firms supported by the fund include "Imaginuity Interactive," "Abstract Concepts," "Ebonymate.com," and "Dallasblack.com." His contributions to technology and entrepreneurship earned him recognition as one of the wealthiest Americans, with an estimated net worth of $1.5 billion in 2008.

Todd Wagner continues to make a significant impact through his philanthropic endeavors and investments in the field of technology. He remains an influential figure in the business and charitable communities, using his success to make a positive difference in the lives of others.