Pre-Zero Sports Talk

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In this episode, we sit down with Michael Huber, a certified sports psychology coach who works with young athletes to strengthen their mental toughness and resilience. Michael shares how his personal experiences, including overcoming gambling addiction, led him to this field and shaped his approach to helping athletes manage pressure. We explore the mental challenges faced by today’s athletes and how to address them through mindfulness and self-awareness.

Key Topics Covered:

• Michael’s path from the corporate world to sports psychology
• The mental pressures young athletes face from parents, coaches, and social media
• Strategies for building resilience and mental toughness in competitive sports
• The role of mindfulness in performance improvement
• Identifying when mental health struggles extend beyond sports
• How parents and coaches can create a supportive environment for athletes

Memorable Quotes:

• "Resilience isn’t just getting through adversity; it’s about doing something different to leap back." — Michael Huber.
• "If we can teach athletes to recognize what they can and can’t control, they’ll function better under pressure."

Resources Mentioned:

• Michael’s Website
• Book recommendation: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Tune In:

Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or a parent, this conversation is packed with practical insights on supporting athletes in mastering the mental side of the game.

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Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

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X: @PreZeroST
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Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

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In this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah engages in a dynamic conversation with Adam Lee Spencer. Adam shares a heartfelt perspective shaped by his military service and experience representing athletes on global stages like FIBA and FIFA.

The discussion covers the evolving landscape of sports management, ethical challenges in athlete representation, and building trust in an industry where business meets social issues. Adam offers insights on racial dynamics in basketball, suburbanization of major events, and balancing profit with integrity.

Key Takeaways:

• [05:00] Evolution of Sports Management: Impact of technology and why human evaluation remains crucial.
• [11:00] Challenges in Athlete Representation: Navigating an overseas basketball deal and due diligence.
• [19:00] Racial Dynamics in Sports: Examining the Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese controversy, drawing parallels to historic rivalries like Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird, and the need to understand the social context behind these narratives.
• [23:35] The “Great White Hope” Reference: Discussion on sports, media, and societal issues. Note: Views expressed are the guests.
• [29:00] Suburbanization of Major Events: Effects on ticket prices and accessibility.
• [33:00] Balancing Ethics and Business: Ethical dilemmas in sports management.
• [42:00] Lightning Round: Memorable sports experiences and life lessons.

Adam’s honesty and passion provide valuable insights into the complexities of the sports industry and the broader social issues that shape it. This episode goes beyond the game to uncover the human stories and societal factors that drive the world of sports.

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Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
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LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

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Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

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In this powerful episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Arif Mirza, a venture capitalist, fitness entrepreneur, and global sports event organizer. Arif’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—starting from a personal fitness transformation that led to a passion for empowering others through sports.

Arif shares his experience of how fitness saved his life and how this personal journey led him to create Dubai’s largest fitness expo and support emerging athletes, especially in Pakistan. He discusses the importance of providing opportunities to young athletes, his mission to break down barriers for Pakistan's Olympic hopefuls, and how Arshad Nadeem’s historic gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics has sparked new hope for sports in Pakistan.

We explore the critical role of sustainability in sports event planning and how Arif’s innovative approach minimizes environmental impact at large-scale events. This episode is packed with insights on fitness, community building, and real change-making, no greenwashing, just straight talk.

Tune in to hear how Arif’s vision transforms lives, inspires athletes, and sets new standards for sports events worldwide.

Key Takeaways:

• Arif’s transformation through fitness and its impact on his career.
• The challenges and rewards of organizing major fitness expos.
• His commitment to supporting Pakistani athletes for the 2028 Olympics.
• The importance of sustainability in sports event management.
• The influence of Arshad Nadeem’s Olympic victory on future generations.

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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In this powerful Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sat down with Greg Walls, a former NFL cornerback and P.E. Sports and Recreation founder. Greg has dedicated his life to coaching athletes for success in both sports and life, and this conversation dives deep into leadership, accountability, and the challenges young athletes face today.

Greg shares his journey from playing in the NFL to becoming a coach and mentor, offering no-nonsense advice on holding athletes to high standards while nurturing their growth. A key takeaway is Greg’s philosophy on listening as a skill—how true coaching isn’t just about telling athletes what to do but getting them to understand and act on what’s needed to succeed. He also reflects on his leadership inspirations, most notably his late father, whom he admires as the ultimate role model.

We also touch on the lighter side of Greg’s personality as he shares his unexpected love for the sport of curling and his passion for the Red-Hot Chili Peppers, showing how multi-faceted he is as both a coach and a person.

Throughout the episode, Greg’s sincerity and passion shine through, whether discussing fighting for every inch in sports and life or addressing the tough issues of head injuries and CTE. He also speaks candidly about the unique pressures young athletes face today, particularly the judgment and scrutiny from social media.

Key Topics:

• Greg's journey from NFL player to coach
• Developing responsibility and accountability in young athletes
• The importance of listening in coaching
• Leadership lessons from his father
• Addressing athlete safety and CTE
• Overcoming social media pressures and other challenges faced by young athletes
• Greg’s love for curling and alternative rock (Red Hot Chili Peppers!)

Tune in to hear Greg’s incredible insights on coaching athletes for success on and off the field!

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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As cities expand, natural habitats shrink. Wildlife is being pushed out of its territory, and the balance of nature is threatened. But is there a way to protect wild spaces while accommodating urban growth?

In this powerful episode#16, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Jason Crighton, conservationist, educator, and host of Conservation Unfiltered, to explore the critical relationship between sports, hunting, urbanization, and conservation. They also examine how legendary conservationists like Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir shaped modern environmental policies.

Together, they discuss:

• The misunderstood role of hunting and fishing in conservation
• How urbanization is threatening wildlife and what we can do about it
• The healing power of nature and why we need to stay connected to the wild
• How individuals and communities can contribute to protecting natural spaces

Whether you are a passionate outdoors enthusiast, an environmental advocate, or simply someone who cares about the future of our planet, this episode will challenge what you know about conservation.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction – The fight for conservation
(00:56) How conservation started in the U.S. and why it matters today
(02:10) Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir’s legacy in protecting wild spaces
(03:30) How hunting and fishing help conservation efforts
(06:10) Debunking the myths around hunting and ethical wildlife management
(08:06) The importance of conservation education in schools
(11:04) How urbanization threatens wildlife and biodiversity
(15:05) Practical steps to get started with ethical hunting and fishing
(20:07) The mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature
(24:17) Why conservation should matter to everyone—not just outdoor enthusiasts
(30:44) Lightning Round Q&A with Jason Crighton

- You can watch the full episode now: YouTube - Spotify

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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In this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, we sit down with sustainability expert Lee Stewart, the author of "How to Build Sustainability into Your Business Strategy." With over 20 years of experience working with billion-dollar companies, Lee brings practical, real-world insights on how businesses—especially those in the sports industry—can integrate sustainability into their core operations and drive meaningful change.

Lee breaks down the complex sustainability challenges and offers strategies for making eco-friendly practices part of any organization’s DNA. Whether you're part of the sports industry or leading a business, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on aligning operations with environmental stewardship while staying profitable.

Key Moments:

• [03:00] - Lee discusses how sports organizations can leverage their fan base to promote sustainability.
• [06:30] - Transparency is key: Lee explains why being open about sustainability efforts builds trust.
• [09:00] - Lee shares the long-term business benefits of sustainability, like attracting talent and profitability.
• [12:00] - How sustainability drives innovation and creates opportunities for growth and engagement.
• [16:00] - Lee dives into circular economy principles and their role in reducing waste and improving supply chains.
• [22:00] - Tips on measuring sustainability performance and engaging communities in eco-friendly practices.
• [37:40] - Supporting Indigenous communities through sustainable practices in sports.
  [54:11] - Lee highlights the crucial role of sports in tackling climate change.

Main Takeaways:

• Sustainability is critical for long-term success.
• Sports organizations have a unique platform to mobilize communities and drive meaningful change.
• Transparency, innovation, and ethical sourcing are essential to a successful sustainability strategy.
• Embracing the circular economy can reduce waste and unlock new opportunities.
• Sports play a crucial role in addressing the global climate change challenge.

Lee Stewart is offering signed copies of his book to a few lucky listeners. To enter, please leave a review for this episode. 

Tune in to hear Lee's insights on transforming sustainability from a challenge into an opportunity for growth and success!

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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In this episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, Sid Bensalah welcomes John Lamy, a seasoned consultant and strategic thinker with a rich background in engineering and leadership. With an education from MIT and an MBA from Cornell, John has been at the forefront of leadership development, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices and global consciousness in business strategies.

Listen in as we dive into what it means to be a "Globally Conscious Leader" and how today's leaders can balance profit with sustainability and ethics. John provides insightful perspectives on avoiding greenwashing, cultivating leadership beyond titles, and the vital role of trust, honesty, and empathy in effective leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• How to develop a leadership style that considers all stakeholders and embraces global awareness.
• The risks of greenwashing and how to ensure genuine sustainability efforts.
• Balancing the drive for profit with ethical leadership and sustainable growth.
• Leadership approaches that promote real growth in both sports and business.
• Why understanding cultural dynamics and diverse market needs is essential for global success.
• The importance of personal development in cultivating leadership qualities and ethical practices.
• Practical steps to foster trust and transparency within teams and organizations.

Whether you're leading in a corporate setting or a sports arena, this episode offers valuable insights into leading with integrity and a global perspective. It's not just about your local team or company but about how we can all contribute to a more ethical and sustainable world. Take advantage of this engaging conversation that challenges conventional leadership approaches.

Tune in now, and remember to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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In Episode #13, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Harry Bailey, the inspiring visionary behind 'Run for the Ranger.' At just 20 years old, Harry has faced significant medical challenges and has shown remarkable resilience and determination to make a difference in wildlife conservation.

Born nine weeks prematurely and battling numerous health issues throughout his life, Harry's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Despite these challenges, he founded 'Run for the Ranger,' an event that raises awareness and provides crucial support for wildlife rangers on the front lines of conservation.

In our conversation, Harry shared:

• The inspiration and motivation behind creating 'Run for the Ranger.'
• How his personal experiences, including overcoming a severe quad bike accident and dealing with a rare immune disorder, have shaped his resilience and dedication to conservation.
• Memorable stories and milestones from the event highlight the courage and commitment of the Rangers.
• The role and responsibilities of rangers in wildlife conservation and the significant challenges they face daily.
• How sports initiatives can engage youth and the community in conservation efforts.
• His vision for the future of 'Run for the Ranger' and his hopes for expanding its impact.

Harry also discusses the logistical challenges of organizing such an event, the importance of community support, and how social media has played a pivotal role in spreading the word. His story is about passion, perseverance, and a profound commitment to positively impacting the world.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of resilience and how early life challenges can shape our passions and drive.
• The multifaceted role of wildlife rangers and the critical need for supporting their efforts.
• The power of community and social media in driving conservation initiatives.
• Practical advice for athletes, sports organizations, and anyone looking to make a difference in conservation.

 This episode is a testament to the impact that one individual can have, regardless of age or circumstances, when driven by a genuine passion for change.

 ☞ If you want to support Run for Rangers and be part of a once-in-a-lifetime challenge, click here to donate: RAN FOR RANGER. Your contribution will significantly impact wildlife protection and support for brave rangers on the front lines of conservation. 

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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Rachel Kolisi is the CEO and Co-Founder of the Kolisi Foundation. In this episode, she shares the transformative work her foundation is doing to tackle critical issues such as education, food security, and gender-based violence in South Africa.

Embark on a personal journey with Rachel Kolisi and the Kolisi Foundation. From the historic Rugby World Cup victory in 1995 to Siya Kolisi's inspiring leadership in the 2019 World Cup, we delve into how the Kolis have transitioned from sports icons to community leaders, challenging inequality and empowering communities.

Uncover the profound impact of the Siyaphakama Zwide Schools Project, the community kitchens addressing food insecurity, and the gender-based violence prevention initiatives. These initiatives, spearheaded by Rachel and the Kolisi Foundation, are making a difference and paving the way for a brighter future.

Tune in for personal stories, insights on sustainable partnerships, and how sports and social impact intersect to drive meaningful progress. Learn how the Kolisi Foundation lives out its motto, "Remember the One, One by One," and find out how you can support its mission.

To get involved, support, and donate, visit the Kolisi Foundation at www.kolisifoundation.org.

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
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Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/

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Join Sid Bensalah in this enlightening Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode as we delve into the significant yet often overlooked world of sports and event branding. Discover its profound impact on the environment and communities across the globe, from the vibrant streets of South Africa to the bustling markets of the Middle East. This episode explores how sports branding intertwines with ecological and social responsibility through the innovative work of our guests.

Key Points Discussed:

• Sustainable Branding Innovations: Neil Hamp-Adams, Owner & Chief Customer Servant of Driving Force Advertising, unveils his sustainable branding solutions, emphasizing the reuse and better management of event materials to minimize waste and environmental impact.
• Community Impact and Recycling Efforts: Donovan Bailey, CEO of ExpandaSign, discusses how his company recycles waste into valuable products while supporting wildlife conservation through partnerships with The Bateleurs.
• Innovative Recycling Initiatives: Tanya Bailey showcases Uzwelo Bags, highlighting their unique approach to converting fabric waste into functional products like school bags and supporting conservation efforts.

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation in Waste Management: Learn about Uzwelo Bags' creative recycling initiatives that are changing lives and contributing to environmental conservation.
• Wildlife Conservation Efforts: Discover how ExpandaSign supports The Bateleurs, an organization dedicated to wildlife protection and environmental conservation, through innovative branding solutions.
• Community Empowerment: Hear about Harry Bailey's impactful "Run For Rangers" event, which supports to support the rangers who protect Africa's wildlife.

Contribute to Conservation & Community:

 If you'd like to support the impactful work of  The Bateleurs and Run For Rangers, visit their websites to learn more about their initiatives, participate in their programs, or donate. Your contribution can help empower communities and protect wildlife.

Support the show

Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.

Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.

Listen, watch, and follow:

Spotify Video: Watch full episodes
YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation
X: @PreZeroST
Instagram: @PreZeroSportsTalk
LinkedIn: Connect with the Community
TikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalk
Substack: Sid Bensalah

Got feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?
Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/

Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/