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Mike Sala didn’t sweat the hustle; instead he embraced it to grow his shoe accessory company, SolePack. From brainstorming the initial concept to navigating the industry with zero design experience — all while working as a physical therapist, Mike's journey is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and the support within the basketball community.
In this episode, Mike talks about the struggle to find a manufacturer, get a patent, fund growth, and market a product that was the first of its kind. He also shares the partnerships that helped elevate SolePack, including working with the NBA and being featured on Showtime’s The Chi.
Join our conversation to hear how Mike turned his passion for the basketball culture into a thriving business!
Topics discussed in this episode:
The initial concept and creation of SolePack
Early struggles in manufacturing and product development
How Mike gives back to his community
Funding the business and outside investment
Loan options for small businesses
Mentorship and community support
Leveraging social media and grassroots marketing strategies
Balancing the business and his career as a physical therapist
https://thesolepack.com/IG: Solepack
Stay connected with Business of Basketball:
https://www.businessofbasketball.co/
https://www.instagram.com/businessofbasketballpod/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6Bwr2Tyx3vuNNSfqdR5rUg
How does a professional player who never wanted to coach end up the Director of Player Development at Temple University? Khalif Wyatt’s story shows how passion for the game can lead to unexpected opportunities and a career in college coaching.
In this episode, I speak to Khalif about his journey from player to coach and how he landed the role of Director of Player Development. He shares the realities of working in college basketball, from mentoring players and collaborating with coaches to recruiting and more. We also discuss how the transfer portal and NIL are affecting the game and influencing recruitment strategies.
Tune in to hear his insights on what it takes to succeed in college basketball and tips for aspiring coaches!
Topics discussed in this episode:
Transitioning from player to Director of Player Development
How to build a successful career as a college coach
Resources for aspiring college coaches
Common mistakes of aspiring coaches
The challenges of mentorship in the coaching industry
Key qualities of a college coach candidate
Balancing coaching responsibilities and family life
The realities of being a college coach
How the transfer portal has impacted college basketball
Navigating NIL as a college coach
Connect with Khalif Wyatt:
https://www.instagram.com/leafbuck1?igsh=bTBhY2l5YmphdWgy
https://www.linkedin.com/in/khalif-wyatt-0baa0128b/
Stay connected with Business of Basketball:
https://www.businessofbasketball.co/
https://www.instagram.com/businessofbasketballpod/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6Bwr2Tyx3vuNNSfqdR5rUg
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