The Average Not Average Podcast

In this episode, Tanisha Crasto shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Dubai to becoming an Olympic badminton player for India. She discusses the challenges of moving countries, the mental resilience required at the highest level, and her experiences on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Tanisha shares her inspiring journey through challenges like alopecia, injuries and family health scares, exploring topics including mental toughness, the business side of sport, and the behind-the-scenes of professional badminton.Chapter Timestamps:

00:40 Introduction To Tanisha Crasto

03:05 Growing up in Dubai & Transition to India

06:52 Challenges of Being an Outsider

11:16 Journey to the Olympics with Ashwini Ponnappa

18:39 Challenges during Olympic Qualification

28:30 Importance of Family Support

29:17 Doubles Partnerships & Team Dynamics

36:42 Memorable Matches & Achievements

41:36 Overcoming Bad Days & Self Doubt

47:12 Alopecia & Resilience

52:20 Playing Doubles with PV Sindhu

54:56 The Evolution of the Badminton Game

58:41 Equipment Choices & Sponsor Agreements

01:04:13 Getting Involved in Content Creation

01:08:44 The Business Side of Sport

01:14:40 Empowering the Next Generation

01:16:31 A Love For Adventure & Trying New ThingsFollow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, Viktor Axelsen and CK Yew sit down with Tamara Geeraerts, Tournament Director of the Yonex German Open, to explore what really goes on behind the scenes of a professional BWF World Tour tournament.

From sponsorships, logistics, volunteers and broadcast production, to the pressure of the tournament week itself, Tamara shares the realities of organising one of Europe’s biggest badminton events and the countless moving parts fans never get to see.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:35 Introduction to Tamara Geeraerts

04:26 The Role of a BWF Tournament Director

06:20 How BWF Tournament Organisation Works

08:29 The Importance of Volunteers

11:41 People Needed to Run a BWF Tournament

14:03 Financial Aspects of Tournament Management

17:54 Sponsorship and Marketing Challenges

20:29 The Transition to Higher-Level Tournaments

27:05 The Future of Badminton Tournaments

29:06 The Challenges of Funding & Sponsorship

34:41 Understanding Tournament Costs & Budgets

36:56 The Complexity of Venue Management

42:37 Financial Realities of Tournament Organisation

44:32 The Unique Structure of Tournament Management in Germany

45:54 Insurance & Risk Management in Events

50:50 Navigating Sponsorship Categories & Restrictions

57:22 The Rewards and Challenges of Organising Tournaments

1:01:41 The Importance of Collaboration Among Tournament Directors

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- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, hosts CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen catch up on what they’ve been up to, including a health update from CK, and what Viktor’s life looks like after retiring from international badminton. They discuss the transition out of elite sport, the importance of recovery and health management, and future plans.**Chapter Timestamps:**00:45 Introduction 01:38 CK’s Health Update & Recovery Journey05:41 The Week Of Viktor’s Retirement Announcement09:29 Life After Badminton: Viktor's New Routine10:17 Viktor’s New Training Goals14:20 Reflections on the Thomas Cup18:55 Viktor On Staying Connected to Badminton19:40 The Mental Transition Out of Elite Sport23:28 Navigating Health Challenges26:21 The Importance of Patience in Recovery22:46 Nutritional Insights During Recovery30:06 Future Plans & Business Ventures37:33 CK’s Haircut Challenges40:02 Future Trips & Contributions to Para BadmintonFollow us on social media for more content!- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/You can also find our conversations on:- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew interviews Manak Kapoor, co-founder of Hndrd, a rapidly growing badminton brand. They discuss the intricacies of building a global sports brand, challenges in distribution, the importance of retailers, localisation strategies, and the future of badminton industry dynamics.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:47 Introduction to Manak Kapoor and Hndrd

02:50 Manak's Journey from Software to Sports

04:37 The Rapid Growth of Hndrd in Badminton

06:03 Challenges of Entering the Chinese Market

07:55 The Complexity of Product Distribution

11:25 Global Launch Strategies for Badminton Products

14:28 Estimating the Global Badminton Market Size

20:29 Revenue Disparities in Badminton vs Other Sports

22:58 The Future Goals of Hndrd

24:11 Localisation Challenges and Strategies

27:15 Product Line Diversity Across Markets

33:13 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in India

35:55 Cultural and Economic Differences in Europe

38:49 The Dominance of the Chinese Market in Badminton

40:35 Cultural Influences on Product Design

42:43 Challenges of Expanding in a Competitive Landscape

47:48 The Importance of Retailers in Badminton

53:33 Navigating Content Creation and Partnerships

55:53 The Value of Retailer Education

59:58 Navigating Copyright Challenges

01:01:41 Price Compression and Retail Dynamics

1:07:59 Stringing Challenges in Europe

01:13:42 Manak’s Top Lessons Learned in Business

01:22:01 Future Aspirations for BadmintonFollow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

Viktor Axelsen opens up about his journey through injuries, his decision to step away from professional badminton, and what lies ahead in the next chapter of his life. This is a heartfelt and reflective conversation between CK Yew and Viktor, where Viktor expresses deep gratitude for the journey - from the people who supported him along the way to the experiences that shaped him both on and off the court. They also explore the sacrifices behind elite sport, the mental resilience required to stay at the top, and the lessons he’s learned throughout his career.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:41 Viktor Axelsen's Retirement Announcement

03:12 The Journey of Injuries and Challenges

11:01 Decision-Making and Support System

12:09 Future Plans and Partnerships

15:46 Reflections on Viktor’s Mindset & Career

21:17 Transitioning to Life After Badminton

23:37 Viktor’s Dedication To Excellence

24:56 Reflections on Early Career and Achievements

28:31 The Pursuit of Excellence in Training

33:47 The Role of Badminton Denmark in Viktor’s Journey

35:50 The Impact of NAS on Viktor’s Training

37:20 Building Relationships with Sponsors

39:18 The Importance of Friends and Family

46:01 Appreciation for Fans and Supporters

Follow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew, Viktor Axelsen, and guest Thomas Fuchs explore the evolving landscape of badminton media, content creation, and strategies to grow the sport's profile globally. They also share insights on balancing professionalism with authenticity, managing teams, and the importance of having a presence on social media.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:36 Introduction

05:23 Celebrating Social Media Nominations

09:57 The Impact of Social Media on Badminton

13:56 Running a Federation Account & Importance of Content Creation

23:12 Podcasting Goals & Showcasing the Athlete's Perspective

28:51 Challenges of Mixed Zone Interviews

30:33 The United Strand Challenge in Badminton

32:21 Balancing Fun and Seriousness in Content

36:12 Commentating in Badminton

46:47 The Journey of Podcasting and Content Creation

53:20 The Importance of Paid Opportunities in Media

57:35 Balancing Multiple Roles in Media

01:06:46 Growing a Team vs. Solo Work

01:11:14 The Business Side of Content Creation

Follow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this one-year anniversary episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, hosts CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen reflect on their journey and answer listener questions. They discuss the evolution of badminton, the importance of media in promoting the sport, and their personal experiences with training and competition. The episode also touches on fun topics, including future plans and humorous anecdotes, making it a celebratory and engaging discussion.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:42 Celebrating One Year of Podcasting

02:35 How the Podcast Came to Life

05:46 Podcast Recommendations and Influences

10:49 Investing in Badminton Gear

11:57 Dealing with Annoying Opponents

14:16 Future Stars in Badminton

17:54 Why Viktor Chose Singles Over Doubles

18:55 Why Some Countries Are Successful Only in Certain Events

23:49 Evolution of Badminton Playing Styles

27:27 Media's Role in Badminton's Growth

34:33 What Separates Top Players

39:38 BWF's Role in Growing Badminton

40:45 Improving Spectator Experience

41:37 Photography in Badminton

48:05 Life After Competition

50:13 Viktor's New Collection

52:31 Books That Influence Mindset

56:48 Dream Doubles Partners

01:01:59 Avocado Oats Eating Session

Follow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode, CK Yew interviews Raphael Sachetat, the founder of Badminton Photo and Solibad, discussing his journey from a journalist to a leading figure in badminton photography. Raphael shares insights into the evolution of badminton photography, the operational dynamics of his agency, and the importance of copyright in the industry. He also highlights the impact of Solibad in providing opportunities for underprivileged children through badminton, showcasing success stories and the community's positive changes. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring photographers and the significance of pursuing one's passion.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:38 Introduction to Raphael Sachetat

04:20 The Journey into Badminton Photography

08:48 Establishing BadmintonPhoto as the official BWF Photo Agency

12:03 Understanding Editorial Photography in Badminton

16:54 The Evolution of Badminton Photography

18:56 Operational Insights and Team Dynamics

23:49 The Importance of Image Rights and Copyright

31:58 The Financial Aspects of Professional Photography

37:35 The Importance of Accuracy in Photography

38:52 What it’s Like to Shoot Professional Badminton Tournaments

42:58 Remembering a Dedicated Photographer

44:56 The BadmintonPhoto Team

48:06 The Role of Badzine in Badminton Journalism

51:06 Exploring New Images Photo Agency

55:03 Solibad: Changing Lives Through Badminton

1:05:33 How to Support Solibad and Its Mission

1:11:20 Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Follow us on social media for more content!- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this featured segment from Episode 26 of the Average Not Average Podcast, guest Thinaah Muralitharan asks Viktor Axelsen some insightful questions about managing expectations and everything that goes into competing at the highest level. Viktor breaks down how he manages pressure at the Olympic Games as a two-time Olympic Champion and shares detailed insight into his “No Stones Unturned” mentality.

Chapter Timestamps:

01:30 Why Viktor Wanted to Get Involved in The Podcast

03:15 Navigating Olympic Pressure

08:50 Expectations and Mental Preparations as a Top Athlete

Follow us on social media for more content!- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/You can also find our conversations on:- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Malaysian badminton superstar Thinaah Muralitharan. They discuss her journey to becoming a top-ranked player, the pressures of being a role model, and the importance of family support in her career. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being an elite athlete, the significance of personal branding in sports, and the importance of mental preparation for competitions. They also share insights on navigating the complexities of social media, managing expectations as top athletes, and the unique experiences of competing in the Olympics.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:30 Introduction to Thinaah Muralitharan

03:25 The Journey of a Badminton Star

05:55 Playing Style and Team Dynamics

08:11 Handling Pressure as a Top Player

10:24 The Role of a Role Model

13:19 Family Influence in Sports

15:42 New Rules in Professional Badminton

22:30 Training Schedules and Understanding Recovery

29:59 The Rise of Pickleball

34:33 Growing Up in Malaysia and Family Support

40:15 Navigating Personal Branding and Management

49:41 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes

56:16 How Thinaah Learnt Mandarin

59:11 The Impact of AI on Language and Communication

01:00:47 Why Viktor Wanted to Get Involved in The Podcast

01:02:52 Navigating Olympic Pressure and Expectations

01:08:25 Expectations and Mental Preparations as a Top Athlete

Follow us on social media for more content!

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:

- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw