From Philosophy to Performance

Jakob Wikenstål, Sport Views Podcast and Bjørn Ekeberg, FlexBeam

How Bjørn Ekeberg and Recharge Health Are Redefining Sports Recovery

What happens when philosophy, elite sport, and cutting-edge technology collide?

The answer is Bjørn Ekeberg, Co-founder and CEO of Recharge Health, and the mind behind FlexBeam, the world’s first targeted red light therapy device designed specifically for active people and athletes.

In the latest episode of the Sport Views Podcast, we dive into Bjørn’s unconventional journey and explore how recovery technology is becoming a decisive performance factor in modern sport.

This is a story about curiosity, recovery, and building the future of sports health.

A Career Path You Don’t See Every Day in Sports

Bjørn Ekeberg did not start his career in a traditional sports or medical environment. With a PhD in Philosophy of Science, his early work focused on understanding how we build knowledge and make sense of the world.

Why was recovery still treated as an afterthought in sport, despite being crucial for performance, longevity, and well-being?

Before founding Recharge Health, Bjørn also worked in creative industries, including screenwriting and storytelling. Today, that ability to translate complex ideas into clear narratives plays a key role in how Recharge Health communicates science to athletes, teams, and everyday users.

The Rise of Recovery as a Competitive Advantage

In elite sport, marginal gains matter. Training, nutrition, sleep, and mental health are now deeply integrated into performance models.

Recovery is the next frontier.

Athletes are no longer asking if they should invest in recovery, but how.

This shift is where Recharge Health enters the picture.

Their flagship product, FlexBeam, is a wearable device using red and near-infrared light therapy, a technology originally researched by NASA and widely studied in medical and scientific contexts. Recharge Health has refined and targeted this technology specifically for muscles, tendons, and joints stressed by training and competition.

The result is a portable, athlete-friendly solution that fits modern, demanding sports lifestyles.

What Is FlexBeam and Why Is It Different?

FlexBeam is designed to deliver targeted red light therapy directly to the area that needs recovery, whether that is the lower back, knees, hamstrings, or shoulders.

Instead of static treatments or clinic-based solutions, FlexBeam allows athletes to recover while moving, resting, or traveling. This flexibility reflects a broader trend in sports technology: solutions must integrate seamlessly into everyday routines.

Professional athletes, clubs, and active individuals across different sports have adopted the technology, helping to push recovery further into the spotlight as a performance enabler, not a luxury.

Bridging Science, Sport, and Accessibility

One of the biggest challenges in health and sport tech is trust.

Athletes want solutions that are evidence-based, not hype-driven.

Recharge Health has taken a science-first approach, grounding its product development in peer-reviewed research while working closely with athletes to refine real-world usability.

This balance between credibility and usability is becoming increasingly important in the sports ecosystem, where technology adoption depends as much on trust as on performance outcomes.

Entrepreneurship Lessons from the Sports Tech Space

Bjørn’s journey also highlights several lessons relevant to anyone working in or aspiring to work in sports, innovation, or entrepreneurship:

• Non-linear career paths are becoming a strength, not a weakness
• Athletic experience can be a powerful driver of innovation
• Understanding users deeply is as important as advanced technology
• Storytelling matters when introducing new ideas to traditional environments

For students, professionals, and organizations within sport, Recharge Health serves as a strong example of how interdisciplinary thinking can unlock new opportunities.

Why Recovery Matters Beyond Elite Sport

While elite athletes often lead adoption, recovery technology is increasingly relevant across all levels of sport and physical activity.

As participation increases and people train later into life, tools that support sustainable movement, injury prevention, and long-term health will play a bigger role.

This aligns with a broader shift in sport: performance and health are no longer opposites. The future belongs to solutions that support both.

Sport Views Podcast: A Conversation Behind the Scenes of Sport

In the Sport Views Podcast, the aim is to explore perspectives from sport that you rarely hear about. Bjørn Ekeberg’s story is a perfect example of how sport intersects with philosophy, science, entrepreneurship, and technology.

His journey shows how innovation often happens at the crossroads of disciplines.

Final Thoughts

Recovery is no longer optional.

It is strategy.

And as sport continues to evolve, the people shaping its future may come from unexpected backgrounds, bringing fresh perspectives that challenge established norms.

Bjørn Ekeberg and Recharge Health remind us that sometimes, the most impactful innovations in sport don’t start on the field, but with a question.

Transforming Sports with Data: A Deep Dive with Stefan Lavén, CEO of Data Talks

Podcast interview with stefan lavén, ceo of data talks

In the latest episode of Sport Views Podcast, we take listeners behind the scenes of the sports industry through the lens of data, technology, and leadership. Our guest is Stefan Lavén, a visionary leader with more than 25 years of experience in the tech industry and the CEO and Founder of Data Talks.

This episode explores how sports organizations can turn supporter data into real business value, how a SportsTech company scales internationally, and what the future holds for fan engagement in sports.

Who Is Stefan Lavén?

Stefan Lavén is a seasoned tech leader who has spent over two decades building, scaling, and advising technology-driven businesses. As the founder and CEO of Data Talks, he leads a people-centric organization delivering a world-class Sports Customer Data Platform (CDP) used by hundreds of sports organizations globally.

Beyond Data Talks, Stefan is also a co-founder and advisor at SportsTech Sweden, where he works closely with startups, investors, and stakeholders to elevate Swedish SportsTech to a global standard.

He is also the author of More Supporters. Superior Sales. Real Revenue, a book that outlines four fundamental principles for increasing ticket and merchandise sales in sports.

From First Sports Experience to Founding Data Talks

One of the most personal moments in the episode comes early on, when Stefan reflects on his first sports experience and how it shaped his understanding of fandom, community, and emotion in sports.

That foundation later became crucial when he identified a major gap in the sports industry:
sports clubs were collecting huge amounts of supporter data, but had no structured way to activate it.

This insight became the starting point for Data Talks.

“Clubs were sitting on a goldmine of supporter data, but lacked the tools to turn it into growth.”

What Does Data Talks Actually Do?

At its core, Data Talks helps sports organizations turn supporter data into revenue and stronger relationships.

Their Sports CDP is built around four key principles:

  • Increasing ticket sales
  • Boosting merchandise revenue
  • Improving supporter engagement
  • Creating long-term, data-driven growth

Instead of fragmented systems, clubs get one unified platform that connects data across ticketing, CRM, marketing, and digital channels, making it actionable for both commercial and sporting departments.

Going International: Scaling a SportsTech Company

A major topic in the episode is how Data Talks successfully expanded beyond Sweden and became an international SportsTech player.

Stefan shares:

  • How early customer validation shaped the product
  • Why scalability and simplicity were critical from day one
  • The importance of understanding different sports markets while keeping a global mindset

Today, Data Talks serves more than 500 customers and has grown into a scalable SaaS business with strong recurring revenues.

Success in Practice: AFC Wimbledon Case

One concrete success story discussed in the episode is the collaboration between Data Talks and AFC Wimbledon.

By implementing Data Talks’ Sports CDP, the club was able to:

  • Strengthen fan engagement across digital channels
  • Improve supporter communication and personalization
  • Support long-term commercial growth without losing its community-driven identity

The case highlights how data and tradition can coexist when technology is implemented with the right values and leadership.

Leadership: Team First, Always

Leadership is another recurring theme. Stefan describes his approach as team-first, emphasizing:

  • Trust and autonomy
  • Clear purpose and shared goals
  • Maintaining a startup mindset, even while scaling

This leadership philosophy has helped Data Talks grow while preserving a culture of innovation and curiosity.

SportsTech Trends and the Future of Fan Engagement

Looking ahead, Stefan points to several key trends shaping the future of SportsTech:

  • Deeper personalization driven by data
  • Smarter use of AI and automation
  • Stronger alignment between commercial and sporting strategies
  • Increased focus on lifetime supporter value rather than single transactions

For sports organizations, the message is clear: data is no longer optional, it is a strategic necessity.

What’s Next for Data Talks?

In the final part of the episode, Stefan shares his vision for the future of Data Talks:

  • Continued international expansion
  • Deeper partnerships with clubs and leagues
  • Constant product evolution driven by real club needs

The ambition remains the same: helping sports organizations grow sustainably while keeping supporters at the heart of everything they do.

Listen to the Full Episode

This episode of Sport Views Podcast is a must-listen for anyone working in:

  • Sports business
  • SportsTech
  • Fan engagement
  • Data and digital transformation in sports

🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Stefan Lavén on Sport Views Podcast and gain rare insights into how data is reshaping the sports industry from the inside.

Want to get more insights about people in the sports industry or similar topics? Head over to:

Sport Views Podcast archive

SportsTech & Innovation articles on Sportidealisten

From Argentina to Sweden: Jaime Segura on Football Scouting, Data and Modern Analysis

jaime segura

What does it really take to work with scouting and video analysis in today’s football industry?

In this episode of the Sport Views Podcast, we take you behind the scenes of modern football with Jaime Segura, Technical Director at Malmö FF and former Swedish champion with BK Häcken.

Jaime’s journey into elite football is anything but traditional. He left Argentina for the United States on a university and sports scholarship, without knowing that this move would eventually lead him to Scandinavia, Swedish championships, and a leading role inside one of the biggest clubs in Swedish football.

Today, Jaime works at the intersection of scouting, player evaluation, video analysis, data, and long-term sporting strategy. In this conversation from Sport Views Podcast, we explore not only what he does — but how modern football decision-making actually works behind closed doors.

This is an episode for anyone curious about how clubs identify talent, use technology, and stay one step ahead in a highly competitive football landscape.

Key Topics & Highlights from the Episode

  • 01:50 – Jaime’s first sports experience
  • 05:50 – Leaving Argentina and moving to the U.S.
  • 08:40 – Arriving in Scandinavia and handling visa challenges
  • 16:10 – Cultural differences in football environments
  • 18:20 – Early career lessons in professional football
  • 24:00 – The move to Malmö FF and winning the Swedish title
  • 29:30 – How players are graded and evaluated in scouting
  • 36:10 – What a typical week looks like as a Technical Director
  • 38:20 – Technology, video analysis, and decision-making tools
  • 42:30 – Managing different football calendars in Sweden and Europe
  • 45:20 – Advice Jaime would give his younger self

Why This Episode Matters

Football is becoming faster, smarter, and more data-driven. Roles like Technical Director and Head of Scouting are no longer just about football instinct — they are about processes, analysis, collaboration, and long-term vision.

Jaime Segura offers a rare, honest perspective on:

  • How modern clubs work internally
  • How careers in football can develop across continents
  • Why video analysis is no longer optional, but essential

About the Guest – Jaime Segura

Jaime Segura is the Technical Director at Malmö FF, working with scouting, player analysis, and sporting strategy. He previously won the Swedish championship with BK Häcken and has built his career across Argentina, the United States, and Scandinavia, combining football knowledge with modern analytical tools.

🔗 Connect with Jaime Segura:

Management in Spanish football

Patricia Barrios

In this episode of the Sport Views Podcast by Sportidealisten, we explore a groundbreaking journey in European football management. Patricia Rodríguez Barrios has built one of the most impressive leadership careers in Spanish football. From becoming the first woman to manage a club in La Liga to advising top football organizations today, her story reflects ambition, resilience, and strategic excellence.

This episode uncovers what it’s really like to lead professional football clubs, navigate financial transformations, and open doors for future generations in sports management.

Who Is Patricia Rodríguez Barrios?

Patricia Rodríguez Barrios joined SD Eibar in 2014 as a financial director during a crucial moment in the club’s history. Only two years later, she made national history by becoming the first woman to serve as a managing director of a men’s First Division club in Spain.

Her leadership journey then continued at Elche CF and Granada CF, where she played a key role in strengthening sporting success, financial stability, and organizational growth.

Today, Patricia works as a consultant and advisor, supporting football clubs, leagues, and sports organizations worldwide. She collaborates with the SportsTech accelerator Sportboost, serves on the Advisory Board of World Football Summit, contributes to the Spanish Sports Marketing Association, and teaches at the European University, Loyola University, and the LaLiga Business School.

Her story is not only about career progress—it is about transforming football through innovation and inclusive leadership.

Episode Highlights

Here are the key topics you’ll hear in the episode:

Early Beginnings

  • 2:00 – First sports memory
    Patricia reflects on the childhood experiences that shaped her love for sport.

Stepping Into the Football Industry

  • 4:00 – Why football and how she entered the industry
    She explains her motivations and the skills that opened the door to professional football.

Building Something New at Eibar

  • 17:10 – First tasks at SD Eibar
    From financial restructuring to strategic planning, Patricia shares what her first months looked like.

Becoming a Role Model

  • 23:30 – The first woman in Spanish football management
    What barriers did she face? How did she overcome them? And what responsibility comes with being a pioneer?

Managing Three La Liga Clubs

  • 32:00 – Differences between Eibar, Elche, and Granada
    Unique cultures, budgets, sporting ambitions, and leadership challenges.

Audience Q&A

  • 40:40 – Listener questions
    Insightful perspectives from Sport Views Podcast listeners.

Why Patricia’s Story Matters

Patricia’s career offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in:

  • Football management
  • Leadership in high-pressure environments
  • Gender equality in sports
  • Strategic transformation of sports organizations
  • Career pathways in European football

Her journey illustrates how leadership is built through preparation, bold decision-making, and a commitment to evolving the sports industry.

Listen to the Episode

Tune in to hear the full conversation and learn from one of the most influential leaders in Spanish football.

👉 Listen to Episode #64 – Patricia Rodríguez Barrios – Management in Spanish Football

How Better Communication Can Transform the Future of Sport

Dan Tunna sports media professional

Featuring Dan Tunna – Sports Communications Expert

How can we tell the story of sport in a more meaningful, impactful, and engaging way?
In this episode of the Sport Views Podcast, we dive into the world of sports communication with Dan Tunna, a seasoned communications specialist helping some of the world’s biggest sports organisations shape their message and reach diverse audiences.

Dan holds a Master’s degree in Sports, Culture and Media and began his career in PR and communications within the insurance industry. In 2012, he made the leap into the sports world with Sky Sports—and he has never looked back. Today, he runs his own consultancy and supports major organisations including The Football Association, PUMA, and New Zealand Rugby.

If you want to understand how storytelling, communication, and audience insight shape modern sport, this episode is for you.

Why Sports Communication Matters

In today’s fast-moving sports environment, communication is more than press releases and match reports. It’s about building trust, engaging fans, supporting athletes, and driving long-term impact. Dan Tunna shares his perspective on how sports organisations can tell better stories and why communication is a strategic tool—not an afterthought.

Episode Highlights

Why Study Sports, Media and Culture?

04:40 — Dan reflects on the early spark that led him to study sports and media at university and why understanding culture is essential for communicating sport effectively.

First Sports Memory

08:40 — A personal and nostalgic look at the moment that first connected Dan with sport.

Tailoring Communication to Different Audiences

14:00 — Sports fans, governing bodies, athletes, and commercial partners all require different communication approaches. Dan shares how he adapts messages for each target group and why nuance matters.

Leading Communication at the English FA

17:40 — Insights into initiating and managing communication for new projects at The Football Association, including the challenges of working within a large, complex organisation.

Pro Bono Work with Tackle Africa

28:45 — Dan’s passion for purpose-driven communication shines as he talks about supporting Tackle Africa, an organisation using sport to drive health education across the continent.

Current Challenges in Sports Communication

32:30 — From misinformation to audience fragmentation, Dan explains the biggest obstacles the industry faces and how communicators can navigate them.

Who Is Dan Tunna?

Dan is a UK-based sports communications consultant working with global clients across football, rugby, and sportswear. His expertise spans media relations, content strategy, crisis communication, and building communication systems for growing sports organisations.

Connect With Dan Tunna

Instagram
Email
LinkedIn
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Learn More About Tackle Africa

Website


If you work in sport, media, fan engagement, or athlete support, this episode is filled with insights that help you communicate with impact.
For more conversations like this—exploring unique perspectives from the sports world—visit Sportidealisten or listen to the full episode of the Sport Views Podcast.

How the Future of Sport Can Become Greener

Ioannis Konstantopoulos

How can we make the world of sports more sustainable?

In episode #50 of the Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most important topics in today’s sports industry — sustainability. The guest is Ioannis Konstantopoulos, a leading voice in the global movement toward more responsible and environmentally conscious sport.

Ioannis holds a Master’s degree in Sports Administration, works as a sports and sustainability consultant, and is a member of the Sports Ecology Group. He is also the Founder and CEO of The Sports Footprint, an environmentally focused startup committed to implementing sustainable practices across the sports ecosystem while actively engaging fans, clubs, organizations, and decision-makers.

This episode from Sport Views Podcast is a must-listen for anyone working in sports management, sports events, sustainability strategy, club development, or innovation.

Episode Highlights

Here are some of the key moments and questions explored in the conversation:

  • 03:00 – First sports memory
  • 04:10 – How Ioannis got into sports and sustainability
  • 06:20 – Why sustainability matters in the sports world
  • 08:00 – Does sport have a better sustainability impact than other sectors?
  • 10:45 – Real examples of sustainability in sports today
  • 16:30 – What defines a “sustainable sport”?
  • 18:20 – The most common questions people ask about sustainability in sports
  • 25:20 – Ioannis shares three actionable tips for becoming more sustainable
  • 28:30 – Listener questions

This episode provides both strategic insights and concrete examples, making it highly valuable for clubs, federations, sportstech companies, event organizers, and anyone passionate about sustainability.

Why Sustainability Matters in Sport

As Ioannis explains during the episode, sport has a unique power to influence millions of people. With massive cultural reach and global fanbases, sport can drive meaningful change faster than many other industries. From climate action and waste management to transportation, facility operations, and community well-being, sustainability touches all corners of the sports world.

Sustainable sport is not only the future — it is an essential part of securing long-term growth, social impact, and credibility for the industry.

About Ioannis Konstantopoulos and The Sports Footprint

Ioannis Konstantopoulos
Instagram | Email | LinkedIn

The Sports Footprint
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Email | Website

The Sports Footprint works with sports organizations to integrate sustainability into daily operations, long-term strategy, and fan engagement. Their mission is simple: help sport reduce its environmental footprint while strengthening its social and economic impact.

Listen to the Full Episode

If you want to explore sustainability from a fresh angle and learn how sports can lead global change, this episode is for you. You can find the Sport Views Podcast on your favorite podcast platform — just search Sport Views Podcast.

Behind the Scenes and Contact

Have feedback or a guest recommendation?

Learn more about the podcast show here.

From Sierra Leone Streets to Global Football – The Remarkable Story of Alhaji Kamara

Alhaji Kamara at Randers FC

In this two-part episode of Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Alhaji Kamara, a professional football player from Sierra Leone whose story is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Journey of Passion, Resilience, and Unstoppable Spirit

In this two-part episode of Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Alhaji Kamara, a professional football player from Sierra Leone whose story is nothing short of extraordinary.

From playing barefoot on the streets to representing top clubs across continents — Kamara’s path is a true testament to perseverance, hope, and the power of believing in yourself, even when the world tells you it’s impossible.

Diagnosed with a defective heart and banned from playing football in Europe, Kamara defied all odds to continue his career around the world. Today, he’s still playing the game he loves — and inspiring thousands along the way.

🎙️ Part 1: The Dream Begins in Sierra Leone

In Episode #44, Alhaji takes us back to where it all started — the dusty streets of Sierra Leone, where football was more than a game; it was a dream of freedom and opportunity.

Together with his friends, he formed a small team called “Young Lions”, which became the launchpad for his professional career. His talent soon caught the eye of FC Kallon, one of the biggest clubs in Sierra Leone, leading to his first professional contract.

Highlights include:

  • 3:00 – His first sports memory and inspiration to play
  • 5:35 – The creation of Young Lions
  • 11:40 – Getting the ticket to Europe through FC Kallon
  • 14:30 – First move abroad: Sweden
  • 19:40 – Becoming Swedish Champion and a move to Malaysia
  • 29:00 – The life-changing moment: discovering a heart defect and being banned from playing football

💬 “When they told me I couldn’t play again, I didn’t believe it. Football is my life.”

⚽ Part 2: Overcoming Tragedy and Returning Stronger

In Episode #45, the story continues with even more emotional depth. After moving abroad for a fresh start, Kamara faced unimaginable loss when his brother passed away on the football pitch.

Yet, his story didn’t end there — it evolved into one of resilience, healing, and redemption. Kamara shares what it took to find joy in football again, return to Europe, and keep inspiring others who face similar obstacles.

Highlights include:

  • 44:00 – Starting a new life and career abroad
  • 58:00 – Losing his brother during a football match
  • 1:07:00 – Playing again after his brother’s death
  • 1:12:00 – Returning to European football
  • 1:18:30 – Answering listeners’ questions

💬 “Football gave me everything. Even after losing so much, it’s what keeps me alive.”

🌍 A Global Story with Universal Lessons

Alhaji Kamara’s journey is not just about football — it’s about human resilience, mental strength, and the courage to never give up. His experiences offer a powerful reminder to athletes, fans, and professionals alike: that passion and purpose can overcome any limitation.

🔗 Listen to Both Episodes

👉 Episode #44 – Alhaji Kamara: Professional football player with a defective heart (Part 1)
👉 Episode #45 – Alhaji Kamara: Professional football player with a defective heart (Part 2)

Follow Alhaji Kamara on Instagram and Facebook.

🎧 About Sport Views Podcast

The Sport Views Podcast takes you behind the scenes of the sports world through deep and personal conversations with athletes, leaders, and innovators. The podcast brings unheard stories that inspire the next generation of sports professionals.

Follow on Instagram: @sportviewspodcast

Life as a communication manager in sports

Søren Højlund Carlsen speaking on Sports Views Podcast about communication in sports.

In this article, we will share about the life as a communication manager in sports. The full story about the life as a communication manager in sports is based on a podcast episode from Sports Views Podcast.

This is a shorter article based on an interview with Søren Højlund Carlsen from the Sport Views Podcast! The sport we are talking about is football. In this episode, you will learn a lot! Actually, you will learn what it takes to become a communications manager and you will also learn what it means to find your dream job. Søren will also share how he and the team made a historic game with a virtual stand.

Helping others is the key as a successful communication manager in sports

In this interview, you will learn what it takes to become a communications manager and you will also learn what it means to find your dream job. Søren will also share how he and the team made a historic game with a virtual stand. And there are of course much more, here are some highlights:

3.27 – Why his first sports memory includes shoes and growing up with the European championships

12.20 – Søren share the problem of losing the future generation

16.28 – He shares how players are reacting to games with fans

20.10 – How to handle a crisis like the Covid-19 as a communications manager?

23.17 – Being creative to still allow partners to the stadium

24.45 – How Søren got into the job as a communications manager

27.55 – Great advice to people who want to work in sports

32.25 – Shares how he reacted when being asked to become the communications manager

38.00 – What Søren does as a communications manager

49.30 – The historic and viral virtual stands

Virtual stands at AGF

See the reaction from the historic game with virtual stands.

Listen to the full episode in the player below or at your podcast player.

Join the Sports podcast, Sport Views Podcast

Want to learn more, join Sports Views Podcast and the guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @sportviewspodcast. If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at sportviewspodcast@gmail.com

If you liked this article, may want to read these:

Unlocking hidden sports job opportunities: The Side door strategy for getting a job in the sports industry

How to create a sport federation

Finding your passion and to work as an account manager at PUMA

The role of a successful coach

Rob Haans sharing coaching insights on sports podcast.

In this article, we will follow up with the second part of the story of Rob Haans. A unique athlete with gold medals in three different weight classes and also a successful coach in martial arts. The full story about how to become a successful coach is based on a podcast episode from Sports Views Podcast.

This is a shorter article based on an interview with Dutchman Rob Haans from the Sport Views Podcast! The sports we are talking about are Martial Arts. In this episode, you will learn a lot! Actually, Rob has a great career as a successful athlete as well as a successful coach. Rob will share what it is like to coach and manage people. Rob Haans also talks about how he developed one of the greatest national teams and the importance och human coaching,

Human coaching is the key to becoming a successful coach

In this second part of the interview, you will learn that you can start your coaching career early in life. Rob shares how the Dutch team talked about the Swedish team and you will also learn more about the role of a coach. Rob will also share what he fears and what he wants to change in Jujitsu. And of course much more, here are some highlights:

5.03 – What’s the difference between military and coaching?

7.40 – What’s the difference between a coach and an athlete?

11.05 – How to coach every athlete individually

13.18 – How is it to coach a national team when you are from another country?

18.30 – How team Sweden found their key to success

22.25 – How to get to know the athletes better

42.43 – Best career advice

1.07.30 – Discover what superpower Rob would have if he could pick one

1.09.24 – How Rob uses his curiosity to develop himself

Rob’s question to you: How can we help each other to get the sports world stronger from this pandemic? What good examples have you seen in sports?

🎬 Movies to watch:

🚴‍♂️ The Least Expected Day

🏀  The Last Dance

📚 Books to read:

Open: An Autobiography

Tiger Woods

If you want to get a great overview of Rob’s successful career, you better check out this video

Listen to the full episode in the player below or at your podcast player.

Join the Sports podcast, Sport Views Podcast

Want to learn more, join Sports Views Podcast and the guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @sportviewspodcast. If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at sportviewspodcast@gmail.com

If you liked this article, may want to read these:

How to Become a Successful and Transformational Leader

Transferable Skills from Competitive Athletes, Part 2: Skills You Gain as an Athlete – Balance and Focus

Dual Career within Sport Management

How to become a successful athlete

Rob Haans training in martial arts, showcasing his dedication and success.

In this article, we will share the story of Rob who is a unique athlete with gold medals in three different weight classes and the importance of following your own drive to have fun in sports and specifically in martial arts. The full story about how to become a successful athlete is based on a podcast episode from Sports Views Podcast.

This is a shorter article based on an interview with the Dutch Rob Haans from the Sport Views Podcast! The sports we are talking about are Martial Arts. In this episode, you will learn a lot! Actually, Rob has a great career as a successful athlete as well as a successful coach. Rob will share what it is like to train, train and train but also how to deal with injuries and getting back to win everything. Rob Haans also talks about finding passion in everything you do and that prioritizing and planning are key to his successes.

The team is the key to becoming a successful athlete

In this first part of the interview with Rob Haans, you will learn that it is possible to change your sport in your late teenagers and you will also learn that you can take a long break and get back into the sport successfully. Rob will also share why he changed weight classes 3 times and won gold at all of them! Furthermore, Rob will share why the team is key for success and that planning will help you find time to relax. And of course much more, here are some highlights in the conversation:

8.20 – Rob’s first sports memory is when he cried at the first judo classes

13.10 – From his first judo classes at 5 years old to the injury that changed him

20.10 – Got invited to the national team

22.20 – What Judo and Jujitsu are

26.40 – His first international medals and then why he took a 4 years break and made a comeback in a new weight class

39.30 – The feeling of changing a weight class a third time

49.00 – How does a day look like for an athlete

59.35 – Why his passion is to compete and being nervous

1.08.45 – The memorable sports object, his first gi (gear), with a special feature

If you want to get a great overview of Rob’s successful career, you better check out this video

Listen to the full episode in the player below or at your podcast player.

Join the Sports podcast, Sport Views Podcast

Want to learn more, join Sports Views Podcast and the guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @sportviewspodcast. If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at sportviewspodcast@gmail.com

If you liked this article, may want to read these:

How to become a successful and transformational leader

Transferable skills from competitive athletes, Part 1: Skills you gain as an athlete – Mental strength

Transferable skills from competitive athletes, Part 2: Skills you gain as an athlete – Balance and focus

Finding your passion and to work as an account manager at PUMA

Account Manager at PUMA shares career insights on passion, sports, and the importance of networking.

In this article, we will share the story from Jur who is an account manager at PUMA. You will learn what PUMA is about and how to get a job in sports. What does an account manager do at PUMA and what are the tasks included? The full story is based on a podcast episode from Sports Views Podcast.

This is a shorter article based on an interview with Jur van Schijndel from the Sport Views Podcast! The sport we are talking about is mostly football but Jur has a great passion for Formula1 too. In this episode, you will learn a lot! Jur will share what it is like to work at one of the biggest sports brands, PUMA and what it is all about, why he thinks sport studies is a great career step. We also talk about sales skills and communication skills and how he made it to PUMA.

Finding your passion and importance of network and sport studies

Jur’s first sports memory was basically that he lived on the football pitch. With this, he means that he spent all his spare time and weekends on the pitch playing and watching football. Then later on in life, he started to ask himself what he should do later in life. He started to think about what he enjoys and realized that sports are always fun and that brought him to study sport marketing studies. He did a 4-year study in 3 years, including two summer schools and 1 semester abroad.

Just be yourself, be confident what you did in the past and just go for it.

Jur van Schijndel

When he looks back at his experiences from the summer schools and the exchange semester he shares his expectations and results being at a summer school. He also talks about gaining multicultural experiences, practical views of how things are. But also the great importance of networking. ”You never know who you met before that you can use later on…” is a phrase that suits the network effect. In the interview, Jur also shares why he did an exchange semester and that the biggest lesson learned being abroad was dealing with people from other cultures.

What is PUMA about?

PUMA is a lifestyle explains Jur. He said that basically, the mission at PUMA is making sure people enjoy the lifestyle of PUMA and the importance of following your passion.

Looking at what PUMA says themselves, they say:

THIS IS PUMA – Sport has the power to transform and empower us. As one of the world’s leading sports brands, it’s only natural that we want to stand on the same playing field as the fastest athletes on the planet. To achieve that, the PUMA brand is based on the very values that make an excellent athlete.

Sport is our world. This makes us passionate about designing, developing, selling and marketing footwear, apparel and accessories. In the course of more than 70 years, PUMA has made history as a creator of fast product designs for the fastest athletes on the planet: We enhance sports such as football, running and training, golf, basketball and motorsports with performance and sport-inspired lifestyle products. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, PUMA’s more than 13,000 employees push sports and culture forward in more than 120 countries.

PUMA

PUMA IN FIGURES

5.23 BILLION EURO SALES IN 2020

209 MILLION EUROS EBIT IN 2020

≈14,300 EMPLOYEES

1948 – YEAR OF BIRTH

Internship at PUMA

Before Jur got his job at PUMA he did two internships at PUMA within marketing and performance and the second one didn’t he want to do, but at the end of the internship period, he finally enjoyed it.

If you listen to the episode that you can find below you will get the opportunity to get recommendations of how to apply for an internship role at PUMA.

One advice when applying for jobs is to just be yourself, be confident what you did in the past and just go for it.

”You never know who you met before that you can use later on…”

Jur van Schijndel

What does an account manager do at PUMA?

First of all Jur and his colleagues at PUMA are making sure people enjoy the lifestyle of PUMA and following their passion.

As an account manager your work with sales. You have some stores that sell PUMA products and you are helping them to sell and make the most out of providing PUMA at their stores. But no matter what, even if it is mostly about sales he puts focus on the important skill of communication that is more important than sales skills. Because in the end, the sales will become better when the relationship is better.

Lessons from sports

Jur thinks you are born with a passion for something and in his story, sports is his passion. He talks about the emotions that sports bring is great. But he also talks about the people involved. Every sport is a team sport, there are always more people involved behind the athlete.

If you are unsure how to know what do do next, then Jur shares a good idea in the end of the podcast.

Jur also shared some book recommendations and Jur recommends:

Open by Andre Agassi

Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE by Phil Knight

Also, Jur had a question to the audience, feel free to answer in the comments below:

Jur wants to know what you do in sports! Please share to us at our email or on Social Media.

Listen to the full episode in the player below or at your podcast player.

Join the Sports podcast, Sport Views Podcast

Want to learn more, join Sports Views Podcast and the guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @sportviewspodcast. If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at sportviewspodcast@gmail.com

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How to create a sport federation

The founder of USA Floorball Adam Troy with a camera

In this article we will share the story from Adam who built up a sport federation in the United States of America. You will learn what floorball is and how to get a job in sports. The full story is based on a podcast episode from Sports Views Podcast.

This is a shorter article based on an interview with Adam Troy from the Sport Views Podcast! The sport we are talking about is a well-known sport in Sweden so therefore we believe it is important to share this conversation with Adam. In this episode, you will learn a lot! Adam will share why he is unique in North America. You will learn about the sport Floorball and how he created USA Floorball, the floorball federation in the United States of America.

Furthermore, you will learn how Adam got into his job and floorball.

The worst and best experience with the American team.

Adam also shares some great advice on how to get a job in sports.

Listen to the full episode in the player below or at your podcast player.

USA Floorball: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Extra material When USA Floorball got smashed by Sweden

Join the Sports podcast, Sport Views Podcast

Want to learn more, join Sports Views Podcast and the guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @sportviewspodcast. If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at sportviewspodcast@gmail.com

If you liked this article, may want to read these:

How to build a sustainable career in sports?

The modern leadership – how to be efficient

Leadership through sport management – How to be innovative