Servicing over2186+athletes
WHO WE ARE
TheLinkU is the leading NIL platform built to simplify, scale, and support the future of athlete compensation.
We provide schools with a turnkey infrastructure to manage revenue sharing, execute NIL campaigns, and drive sustainable athlete funding compliantly and transparently. We empower universities, student-athletes, and brands to manage, grow, and scale Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities through a seamless, compliant, and data-driven system.
Since launching in 2022, TheLinkU has transformed how institutions and athletes navigate the NIL landscape combining innovative technology with dedicated support to make NIL simple, transparent, and sustainable.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to champion integrity in every play by building trust and efficiency in the NIL space.
We exist to protect, elevate, and connect:
- Protect the Athlete
- Protect the University
- Protect the Sponsor
Through automation, compliance oversight, and transparent reporting, TheLinkU helps every partner operate confidently within an evolving NIL environment.
OUR IMPACT
What began as a vision to simplify NIL management has evolved into a nationwide network of athletes and institutions. TheLinkU supports over 2,300 athletes and partnerships in some capacity with 30 schools and Players Era Festival, providing the structure and innovation needed to drive lasting NIL success.
Our platform powers both revenue-share and/or revenue-generation initiatives with the University of Houston, Texas A&M, Boise State, Fresno State, and more, showcasing the flexibility and scalability of TheLinkU's model across collegiate athletics.
We continue to expand our reach by helping schools strengthen compliance infrastructure, increase NIL participation, and enhance the overall athlete experience through unified technology and strategy.
THE EXECUTIVE TEAM
Austin Elrod
Co-Founder & President
Our mission is to champion integrity in every play by building trust and efficiency in the NIL space.
Austin Elrod, a former University of Houston quarterback and proud alumnus, is a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to making a positive impact in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) space. As the Founder and President of TheLinkU, Austin is at the forefront of transforming the NIL landscape with integrity and transparency.
Leading the charge at TheLinkU, an ambitious project aimed at establishing the largest and most robust NIL program in the country. This initiative leverages Austin's unique perspective as a former UH QB, his diverse business acumen, and his role as a UH donor to empower student-athletes. He is passionate about providing them with the resources and connections needed to navigate the evolving NIL environment successfully.
Austin believes in the power of collaboration, particularly in supporting athletes nationwide. He is committed to uniting local businesses, national brands, and successful leaders to reshape the future of college athletics and provide sustainable NIL revenue and growth for years to come.
Beyond TheLinkU, Austin has developed several successful ventures, including Elrod Enterprises, Elrod Interiors, NCSC Pest & Wildlife, Coeur d'Alene Cleaning Services, and Elrod Land & Cattle. He also co-owns Haak Winery with fellow UH teammate Case Keenum.
At the heart of Austin's endeavors is a desire to create opportunities, forge lasting relationships, and be a positive force within college athletics.
Landon Goesling
Vice President
Landon Goesling is an accomplished sports executive and Vice President at TheLinkU, where he leverages his unique blend of athletic experience, business acumen, and strategic marketing expertise to drive groundbreaking initiatives in the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) space.
A former Division 1 basketball player at the University of Houston, Landon made a significant impact on the court, scoring over 1,000 career points and contributing to the most successful team in Houston Basketball history. His time as a student-athlete further shaped his professional journey, as he not only completed his Master's degree but also served as a graduate assistant coach under the mentorship of future Hall of Fame coach Kelvin Sampson.
Landon's transition to the business side of sports was seamless, with a proven track record of success in the NIL space. He has negotiated and facilitated over $20 million in NIL deals for athletes, including multiple seven-figure contracts. His impressive client roster includes some of the biggest names and brands in the world, such as ExxonMobil, Amazon, Powerade, SKIMS, Doritos, Cactus Jack, and Panini America.
In addition to his NIL work, Landon has represented multiple first-round NBA draft picks and professional athletes, playing an integral role in managing their marketing efforts and maximizing their brand potential. His diverse skill set, built on years of athletic and business experience, has positioned him as a leader in the rapidly evolving intersection of sports, marketing, and branding.
Landon's expertise continues to shape the future of athlete empowerment and brand partnerships, making him a key figure in the sports industry.
John Lee
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Product Officer
John Lee currently serves the dual role as both the COO and the CPO. He plays an integral role in shaping the platform's product strategy and driving its success within the NIL industry. With over 15 years of experience in product and project management for technology start-ups, John has been a key contributor to the rapid growth of TheLinkU, helping the platform become a prominent player in connecting athletes with NIL opportunities.
John's expertise spans a range of industries, including a background in the health and wellness sector, where he consulted for a variety of companies focused on fitness and wellness technology and software. Prior to his role at TheLinkU, John served as the Product Officer for a SaaS platform specializing in recruitment and compliance within the luxury yachting industry. His diverse experience and strategic approach to product development have helped him foster innovation and deliver impactful solutions across multiple sectors.
John's passion for driving technological advancements and his ability to navigate complex markets have been pivotal in positioning TheLinkU as a leader in the evolving NIL space
Vishal Yadav
Chief Technology Officer
Vishal Yadav is the CTO of TheLinkU. With over 20 years of experience in software technology, and holding a Bachelor's in Science and a Master's in Computer Science, Vishal has a strong background in building compliance and credentialing software. He served for 15 years at Symplr, America's largest Governance, Risk, and Compliance business in healthcare, starting as Chief Programmer when the company was founded. He later took on multiple strategic and leadership roles, ultimately contributing to a successful exit.
Vishal has been awarded the prestigious title of Fellow by the British Computer Society (BCS) in London, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field of Information Technology. He is also a respected member of the Forbes Technology Council, where he has been featured on Forbes and shared his expert advice through their multiple expert panels.
