From Sports Executive to Business Coach: A Conversation with Fred Ewig

Send us Fan MailIn this Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Fred Ewig, a former sports executive turned business coach. Fred brings over two decades of experience across professional hockey and youth sports. He now helps business leaders grow by focusing on strategy, not day-to-day tasks.Fred shares hard-earned lessons from building a business, leading large teams, and overcoming early sales rejection. He also explores how private equity reshapes youth sports and why grit, more than hustle, is the key to long-term success. This episode offers tactical insights, honest stories, and practical leadership advice.Key Takeaways:·       How to work on the business, not just in it·       The role of mindset in navigating challenges·       Sales tips from cold-call trenches·       Why athletes struggle in leadership roles·       Youth sports, private equity, and rising costsTimestamps:       00:00 Introduction to Fred Ewig       00:54 Fred's Transition from Sports to Coaching       03:03 Challenges in Building a Business       05:22 Sales Techniques and Overcoming Rejection       11:47 Leadership in Sports vs. Business       15:23 The Evolution of Youth Sports       20:05 The Importance of Grit in Business       20:56 Coaching Through Low Points       22:48 Why Business Owners Delay Seeking Help       24:17 Balancing Accountability in Coaching       29:09 Private Equity's Impact on Youth Sports       32:06 The Rising Costs and Pressures in Youth Sports       38:21 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions       43:09 Final Thoughts and AdviceSupport the showStay 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 episodesYouTube: Subscribe and join the conversationX: @PreZeroSTInstagram: @PreZeroSportsTalkLinkedIn: Connect with the CommunityTikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalkSubstack: Sid BensalahGot feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/