Pre-Zero Sports Talk

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when pressure strips everything down to who you really are?In Episode #105, Sid Bensalah sits down with David Petrash, a U.S. Navy veteran, former nuclear submarine reactor operator, entrepreneur, pastor, leadership speaker, and founder of Ripple of Faith Leadership.From life aboard nuclear submarines to leadership in business, ministry, and family life, David shares hard-earned lessons on communication, pressure, purpose, faith, ambition, and the ripple effect our lives leave in others.This is a raw, honest, and deeply reflective conversation about leadership under pressure, the hidden cost of success, burnout, identity, marriage, surrender, and learning to lead from the inside out.Key topics include:• Leadership under pressure• Life aboard nuclear submarines• Communication that actually connects• Accountability with empathy• Why pressure reveals character• The danger of achievement addiction• Marriage, family, and being present• Burnout, surrender, and letting go of control• Faith, purpose, and true success• Building a ripple effect that outlives youTIMESTAMPS00:00 — The Ripple Effect: Leadership, Purpose & the Cost of Self00:29 — Young Responsibility & Early Leadership Lessons01:19 — The Ripple Leadership Mindset03:24 — Show Introduction04:57 — Growing Up David Petrash09:08 — Academy Setback & Learning Through Failure12:07 — The Military Comfort Trap13:40 — Discipline, Accountability & Leadership Lessons15:44 — Life Aboard a Nuclear Submarine20:58 — Pressure, Fatigue & Mental Resilience27:23 — Communication That Actually Lands32:18 — Leadership, Clarity & Building Trust37:24 — Accountability With Empathy42:50 — Coaching, Mentorship & Human Connection47:22 — Betting On Yourself48:51 — Pressure Reveals Leaders51:13 — Calm Under Pressure & Letting Go of Control53:21 — The Origins of Ripple of Faith Leadership54:59 — Life-Giving Leadership vs Leaving a Wake01:00:06 — Lightning Round Begins01:00:17 — Why Great Leaders Focus Outward01:03:22 — Feelings vs Behavior01:05:31 — Surrender & Letting God In01:07:52 — Why Faith Can Sometimes Make Life Harder01:09:45 — Marriage Beyond Happiness01:13:50 — Family, Presence & The Cost of Ambition01:18:10 — Achievement Addiction & Identity01:21:40 — “Enough” & Redefining Success01:23:27 — Avoiding Burnout & Emotional Exhaustion01:26:18 — Hope, Legacy & The Ripple We Leave Behind01:32:34 — Final Reflections, Closing Thoughts & QuoteOrder David’s book: The Ripple of FaithSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you achieve everything you thought you wanted… but still feel exhausted, disconnected, and empty inside?In this raw and deeply honest conversation, leadership coach and burnout expert Nicole Anderson joins Sid Bensalah to unpack the hidden emotional cost of success, high performance, leadership pressure, parenting, identity, and modern work culture.Nicole shares her personal journey through burnout, health struggles, motherhood, achievement addiction, and the process of redefining success on her own terms. Together, they explore why so many high achievers tie self-worth to performance, why modern culture rewards productivity over peace, and how leaders can pursue ambition without losing themselves in the process.This episode also dives into:• Burnout and emotional exhaustion• Leadership and authenticity• Women in leadership• Work-life integration• Parenting and ambition• Mental resilience in sports and business• Scandinavian work culture• Recovery, boundaries, and intentional living• Purpose beyond titles and achievementKey Moments:00:00 Success on Paper, Empty Inside03:54 Kids Trigger the Shift06:53 Achievement as Identity14:57 Redefining Success and Freedom23:51 Ambition With Boundaries35:27 Hit the Wall and Naming It47:45 Resilience Means Recovery Plans49:56 Gender Double Standards in Leadership01:03:30 Work Life Integration01:10:29 Ambition and Presence01:16:07 Building Mindfully SuccessfulLearn more about Nicole Anderson:https://thekalergroup.comOrder Mindfully Successful:https://margoboster.com/mindfully-successful/Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 103, Sid Bensalah sits down with Stephanie Sylvestre, CEO and Co-Founder of Avatar Buddy AI, for a raw and deeply human conversation about AI, leadership, human potential, layoffs, community, and the future of work.Stephanie explains why AI should amplify people rather than replace them, how properly configured AI can build self-esteem and self-agency, and why the erosion of the middle class could become one of society’s biggest risks.From powerful stories in Nairobi and Ghana to honest reflections on entrepreneurship, self-doubt, sexism in tech, and the emotional realities of building a startup, this episode goes far beyond technology.This is a conversation about people, purpose, resilience, and what kind of future we are building.Topics include:• Human-centered AI• AI and leadership• AI replacing jobs• Layoffs and the middle class• Entrepreneurship and resilience• Digital mentors and AI agents• AI in education and farming• Community and trust in the AI era• Deepfakes and human connection• Women in AI and leadershipTimestamps:00:00 AI Won’t Replace Humans — But Bad Leadership Might00:05 AI And Human Possibility02:57 Accidental Startup Origin12:45 Doubt, Ego, and Menopause15:29 Data Vaults And AI Agents25:02 Profit, Layoffs, and Society36:41 AI For Literacy And Farming43:32 Kindness and Self-Worth47:42 Monetizing Human First AI55:19 Layoffs And Exploitation56:52 Sexism And Racism In AI01:01:08 Deepfakes And Community Trust01:03:27 Future Vision And Lightning RoundSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailEpisode #102 of Pre-Zero Sports Talk features leadership advisor and former COO Björn Vikard in a raw, honest, and deeply insightful conversation on leadership, succession, trust, systems thinking, and high-performance culture.Drawing on more than 20 years of experience across Sweden, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, and Thailand, Björn shares hard-earned lessons on cross-cultural leadership, rebuilding broken trust, founder dependency, organizational culture, and why great teams collapse when leadership becomes overly centered on one individual.Using powerful examples from Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, the All Blacks, Olympic systems, and family-owned businesses, this episode explores how leaders can build organizations, teams, and cultures that last beyond them.We also dive into communication, marriage, parenting, AI’s impact on leadership, “gemba” leadership, sports development systems, and the importance of humility, self-awareness, and accountability.A powerful long-form conversation for leaders, coaches, founders, athletes, and anyone interested in leadership beyond titles and ego.Timestamps00:00 Leadership Beyond the Leader02:59 Culture Shock in Sri Lanka09:49 Why Relationships Matter in Asia12:28 Trust, Character & Self-Awareness21:40 Systems Over Hero Leaders27:54 Sports Coaching Cycles31:54 Founder Succession Fears40:49 Difficult Conversations With Owners56:37 Different Levels See Different Problems57:39 Gemba Leadership Explained01:01:58 Rebuilding Broken Trust01:09:52 Marriage & Communication01:13:29 AI & The Future of Consulting01:22:26 Lightning Round01:31:06 Final Thoughts & QuoteLearn more about Björn → https://bjornvikard.com/Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 101 of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, Sid Bensalah sits down with Jonathan K. Osborne, a former Division I basketball player and federal prosecutor, now leading white-collar defense and internal investigations.This conversation explores preparation vs. uncertainty — and how sports shape leadership, discipline, and identity beyond the game. Jonathan shares how grace, grit, and humility became the foundation of his journey from athlete to attorney.One powerful framework he shares is thinking about life in 7-year cycles — where each phase brings periods of growth and evolution across three key areas: professional life, personal life, and community service.He also reflects on failure and losing — not just as outcomes, but as defining moments that shape character and perspective.The episode dives into the realities of NIL deals, contract risks, and leadership under pressure, while also touching on faith, service, and purpose. In a powerful moment, Jonathan shares what gives him hope — rooted in progress, growth, and the impact we have on others.A raw and insightful conversation for athletes, leaders, and anyone navigating pressure and purpose.Timestamps00:00 Grace, Grit & Humility: What Sports Teach You About Life and Pressure02:09 Sportsmanship And Grace03:34 Basketball Lessons: Grit Humility09:24 Player To Coach Mindset11:21 Athletes In Business Excellence13:39 Habits, Health, and Seven Years23:21 Defining Winning And Losing26:40 Servant Leadership Principles30:08 Pressure as a Federal Prosecutor33:28 Composure Reading The Room36:08 Detaching After Verdicts40:15 Settling vs Trial Control41:59 NIL Deal Misconceptions43:17 Contract Dispute Clauses45:56 Unequal Leverage and Representation50:49 Is NIL Sustainable52:52 Key Clauses to Review01:02:01 Morality Clauses and Investigations01:05:28 AI Ethics in Legal Practice01:08:37 Hope Progress and Service01:12:52 Lightning Round01:19:53 Final Wisdom and ClosingTo learn more about Jonathan, click here. Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailOn the milestone Episode 100 of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, Sid Bensalah sits down with Dr. Jack Groppel, a sports science pioneer and author of Mountains Within, for a raw, deeply personal conversation about success, faith, and identity.From a childhood shaped by a demanding father to a lifelong drive to prove himself, Jack opens up about what he calls “achievement addiction” — the relentless pursuit of external validation. Despite working with elite athletes and leading organizations such as the Human Performance Institute, he reveals that success alone was never enough.A turning point came during a 1996 hospitalization, when isolation forced him to confront deeper questions about purpose, relationships, and faith. What followed was a journey of transformation — guided by mentors, grounded in faith, and ultimately reshaped by fatherhood after adopting his son from China.Jack shares powerful insights into curiosity as a driver of growth, the role of fear in life and faith — reflected in Holy Easter and the human experience of fear — and the importance of character over performance. As he puts it, “I’m not a fan of pushing in sport, but I’m a big fan of being a great parent.”From an unforgettable trip to Alaska with his father to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with his son, this episode reflects on transformation, resilience, and the mountains Timestamps00:00 - I Spent My Life Trying to Prove Myself00:01 - Redefining Success03:07 - Early Life and Father Influence10:27 - Curiosity, Pressure, and Validation25:21 - Faith, Crisis, and Searching for Truth31:15 - Becoming a Sports Science Pioneer53:24 - Elite Performance and Human Potential01:12:50 - Risk, Career Choices, and Achievement Addiction01:33:32 - Adoption and Becoming a Father01:50:00 - Kilimanjaro and the Mountains Within02:04:06 - Final Reflections on Purpose and SuccessSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, 99, Sid Bensalah talks with Alex Lubyansky, Founder of Detroit Metro FC and former European Sporting Director, to reveal a tough truth about U.S. soccer.The system is built more for participation than actual performance.Alex discusses how the pay-to-play model prioritizes players by income over talent, explains how incentives shape behavior at both youth and professional levels, and describes how the U.S. differs from global soccer systems. From Europe’s merit-based promotion and relegation system to South America’s culture of access and street football, this conversation challenges how we view development, competition, and success.This offers a clear, honest perspective on governance, money, and the structural forces shaping the game.Timestamps:00:00 Why U.S. Soccer Fails00:01 Participation Over Performance01:59 Meet Alex Lubyansky02:54 From Ukraine to Pro Football05:36 Building a Free Club Model07:10 Europe Rewards Winning08:36 U.S. Soccer Business Model09:40 Why Transfers Don’t Matter12:46 MLS: Entertainment vs Sport13:44 Culture and Attention24:35 Grassroots Costs34:08 Detroit Metro FC37:24 Promotion and Relegation39:38 U.S. League Structure41:16 Why Promotion Matters42:27 Europe’s Club Culture44:13 Pressure and Performance47:05 Can the U.S. Change48:36 Super League Risk51:55 Pay-to-Play by Design56:23 College Soccer58:08 Money vs Culture01:04:30 Brazil and Argentina01:09:19 World Cup Impact01:14:53 Lightning RoundSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 98, Sid Bensalah sits down with Scott Martin, an award-winning soccer coach, educator, and author of Play From Your Heart.After a life-threatening infection led to septic shock, a month-long coma, and the loss of both hands and parts of his feet, Scott was forced to rebuild his life from the ground up. What followed is a powerful journey of resilience, leadership, and rediscovering purpose through sport.Scott shares how coaching is not about control, but about putting players in a position to learn. He reflects on identity, confidence, parenting, and what it means to lead with empathy and accountability. From raising five adopted children to returning to the sidelines with prosthetics, his story is raw, honest, and deeply human.This episode explores leadership beyond the game, adaptive sports, and why playing from the heart changes everything.Timestamps00:00 Play From Your Heart01:04 Coaching as Learning02:48 Parenting and Leadership07:20 Life Changed Overnight10:29 Driven Before Illness14:25 Coaching Philosophy19:46 Mentors and Culture31:31 Illness Warning Signs35:10 Coma and Wake Up38:36 Identity and Grief50:01 Adoption Journey59:38 Return to Coaching01:14:03 Writing the Book01:18:53 Disability Advocacy01:20:46 Paralympics and Media01:30:05 Building a Winning Team01:35:36 Empathy and Accountability01:40:00 Lightning RoundLearn more about Scott here.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailWhat if dyslexia is not a disability, but a different method of processing information that schools still do not understand? In this detailed episode, Sid Bensalah interviews Russell Van Brocklen, a dyslexia researcher funded by the New York State Senate, whose personal struggles with reading and writing drove him to pursue a 20-year mission to reevaluate dyslexia and learning. After being assessed at roughly a first-grade reading and writing level in college, Russell developed a system that challenges traditional ways schools teach dyslexic students and shows how parents, teachers, and coaches can better support them.Russell explains why many schools use the wrong cognitive approach, how his front-brain learning model functions, and why word analysis followed by articulation can quickly improve writing. He also shares case studies from state-funded programs, success stories led by parents, and his views on sports, motivation, neurodiverse thinking, and institutional resistance.This is a raw, honest, high-energy discussion on dyslexia research, education reform, learning systems, coaching dyslexic athletes, and practical steps for families and educators.Timestamps00:00 The Dyslexic Advantage00:58 The F That Sparked A Mission08:49 Why Schools Miss Dyslexia13:48 First Grade Level Evaluation21:45 Law School Trial By Fire30:22 Front Brain Strategy Explained45:02 Building A Learning System49:02 Kimberly And Reed Breakthrough01:06:52 Schools vs Neurodiverse Brains01:21:00 Sports as Strength Builder01:27:01 Institutional Resistance01:39:51 AI as Research Assistant01:49:09 Final Advice and ClosingLearn more about Russell → https://DyslexiaClasses.comSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 96 of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah interviews Josephina Oji, Global Director of Impact, Sustainability, and Transformation, for an engaging discussion on leadership, sustainability, and the value of an outsider perspective in sports.Josephina shares her “squiggly career” journey from law, human rights, and government policy into global sports strategy. Drawing on experience in diplomacy, criminal justice reform, and health equity, she explains how new perspectives can challenge traditional thinking within the sports industry.The discussion examines why sport remains one of the most influential yet fragmented sectors regarding governance, sustainability, and long-term strategic planning. Josephina emphasizes that social and environmental responsibility should not be seen as a mere compliance task, but as a competitive advantage that can open new markets, build community trust, and generate lasting impact.From golf’s transformation and emerging markets to fan behavior, gender equity, and the role of storytelling in sustainability, this episode highlights how sport can become a powerful tool for global change. Josephina also shares her thoughts on leadership, navigating the industry as a young Black woman, and the importance of building allies and strategic partnerships to promote meaningful progress.Timestamps00:00 Josephina Oji: The Outsider Advantage in Sport, Sustainability, Leadership, and Impact04:24 Intro 08:47 Soft Power & Equity in Diplomacy and Pandemic Response10:35 Leaving Government: Consulting and the Business Case for Impact18:36 Will AI Replace Lawyers? 25:36 Why Sport Hired Her31:18 Outsider Blind Spots, Barriers, & Leadership Challenges38:17 Building Trust in Sport Through Expertise & Strategy45:41 Allies in the Room: Influence & Advocacy46:14 Why Sport Feels “Immature” & Why That Creates Opportunity50:32 Fan Behavior, Storytelling, & Breaking Down Silos01:02:15 Representation, Tiger Woods, & the Next Generation01:06:04 Why Equal Pay Still Lags in Elite Sport01:13:39 Lightning Round01:21:27 AI, Legacy, & Sport as a Vehicle for ChangeSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailAre men facing a modern masculinity crisis?In Episode 95 of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, Sid Bensalah sits down with Maxim Shapiro, men’s purpose coach and founder of Forward Motion Coaching, for a raw and honest conversation about depression, identity, effort, and reclaiming authentic self-leadership.Maxim shares how years of drifting, negative self-talk, and playing it safe led to deep dissatisfaction. In his early 40s, a “jarring awakening” pushed him to move from Massachusetts to California, start a business, commit to a long-term relationship, and come off antidepressants. What followed was not comfort, but growth.This episode explores:• Why many men feel lost or displaced in today’s culture• The difference between the true self and the performed self• Effort vs results and redefining success• Loving as effort and leadership as presence• Digital culture, dopamine, and declining real community• Rebuilding belonging through hard, shared practices like jiu-jitsu• Practical steps to move from stuck to aliveMaxim explains that self-respect grows from consistent effort, not outcomes. Big goals matter even without guarantees. Authenticity requires stillness, breathing, intuition, and the courage to say what is true.00:00 – Weather Check & Setting the Conversation02:10 – Depression at 19 and Early Negative Self-Talk04:26 – Drifting Without Purpose06:45 – Moving to California and Going All-In12:22 – Effort Over Results and Self-Respect18:13 – Big Goals and Redefining Failure24:10 – What Success Really Means32:54 – Coaching Men to Open Up36:19 – Intuition, Stillness, and Authenticity38:47 – True Self vs Performed Self42:47 – Masculinity Today and Leadership46:30 – Digital Culture and Disconnection49:43 – Rebuilding Community Through Jiu-Jitsu52:10 – Small Consistent Actions That Create Change55:44 – Lightning Round01:01:05 – Viktor Frankl ClosingIf this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 94 of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, Sid Bensalah sits down with performance coach Tom Waite to explore why your body is the real business plan for any leader aiming for clarity, resilience, and long-term performance. Tom works with executives and founders, using athletic training principles, biometric data, strength work, and recovery systems to help high performers avoid burnout and lead with energy and purpose.Tom shares his journey from semi-professional athlete to coaching leaders, and explains why many executives miss the earliest signs of declining health. He breaks down the importance of understanding your “why,” how to build feedback systems that guide behavior, and why strength training, nutrition, and recovery routines drive better decision-making and mental sharpness.This conversation blends real stories, practical strategies, and honest reflections on leadership, identity, and sustainable performance. If you want to lead at a high level without sacrificing your health, this episode offers a clear roadmap grounded in experience, not theory.Timestamps00:00 Your Body Is the Business Plan, Training Leaders Like Athletes00:01 Introduction and Greetings00:22 Discussing the Grind Culture01:21 Introducing the Guest: Tom, the Performance Coach01:58 Tom's Journey from Athlete to Coach03:10 The Importance of Health for Executives03:57 The Missing Element in Executive Health06:33 Real-Life Stories of Health Transformation15:27 Identifying Early Signs of Declining Health17:12 Debating Weight Loss Medications23:20 Building Effective Health Systems25:43 Healthy Eating Habits27:00 The Importance of Wearables30:06 Morning Rituals for Success31:52 Strength Training for Longevity37:27 Travel and Nutrition Tips41:27 Lightning Round Q&A45:23 Final Thoughts and Contact InfoIf this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailAngela R. Lewis, a former Division I basketball player, championship-winning coach, author, and leadership consultant, joins host Sid Bensalah on the Pre-Zero Sports Talk podcast to discuss the evolving landscape of women's sports. The conversation covers visibility in women's sports, the importance of role models, and the growth and investment that drive the game's popularity. Angela delves into her V6 framework, which helps athletes transition from valley to victory, emphasizing character development over performance. She also highlights the significance of trust, resilience, and personal growth in coaching, shares insights on pay equity, and reflects on the impact of media portrayals in sports. Angela's new children's book and her existing publications aim to inspire and empower young athletes, emphasizing courage, heart, and community. The episode offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts seeking to foster a supportive and equitable sports environment.Timestamps00:00 - Angela Lewis on Coaching, Equity & the Future of Women’s Sports00:01 - Opening & Intro00:16 - Visibility in Women’s Sports02:04 - Meet Angela Lewis03:24 - Her Coaching Journey07:16 - The V6 Framework Explained09:46 - Handling Setbacks & Growth14:39 - Trust in Coaching Relationships17:52 - Growth of the Women’s Game21:15 - Media Coverage & Representation29:29 - Humanizing Athletes31:53 - Pay Equity: Where We Are36:52 - Faith, Identity & Resilience38:08 - Messages for Young Girls in Sports47:14 - Lightning Round Q&A50:20 - Final Reflections & Ways to Connect- Learn more about Angela: angelarlewis.com If this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailDavid Sauers is the co-founder of Royal Restrooms, a visionary entrepreneur and master at turning overlooked problems into meaningful business solutions. From a frustrating moment at a Shakespeare festival in Savannah, Georgia, he sparked an idea that led to a nationwide luxury restroom franchise operating in over 50 U.S. markets.In this episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah explores David’s powerful journey—from building Royal Restrooms out of necessity to expanding into event innovation through ventures such as Pitch Perfect TVs and Savannah Bar Carts.David opens up about:What sparked the businessHow leadership, faith, and purpose shaped his pathThe challenge of educating clients to shift from cost-thinking to value-thinkingFranchising, scaling, and creating a culture of serviceWhy clean infrastructure is central to performance in sports, business, and lifeThis episode is packed with practical insights for event organizers, coaches, entrepreneurs, and anyone building something from the ground up. It’s honest, unfiltered, and full of heart.Timestamps00:00 – Rethinking Restrooms: David Sauers on Innovation, Leadership, and Event Experience00:01 – Introduction and Greetings00:29 – David's Inspiring Journey02:38 – The Birth of Royal Restrooms06:12 – Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success14:40 – Expansion and Franchising20:20 – Innovative Ventures and Future Plans22:51 – Event Logistics Insights24:00 – Shifting Client Mindset from Cost to Value33:35 – Faith and Leadership38:17 – Customer Experience and Brand Loyalty43:47 – Lightning Round: Personal Insights47:33 – Concluding Thoughts and LegacyIf this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this raw, honest, and wide-ranging conversation, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Bob Labbe, retired engineer and author of Putting by the Numbers, to explore how structure, science, and simplicity can unlock consistency and confidence in your golf game — starting with lag putting.Bob shares how frustration on the green turned into a 25-year journey that combined engineering logic with real-world results. His method requires no gear, no swing changes — just basic arithmetic, practice, and presence. From technical insights to mindset shifts, this episode goes beyond technique and into what it really takes to be a better golfer.Whether you're chasing a lower handicap or just tired of three-putts, this episode gives you tools, stories, and a refreshing reminder that progress is possible — at any age.Timestamps00:00 – Golf Smarter: Master Lag Putting with Bob Labbe00:36 – Why putting ruins most golf scores02:21 – Meet Bob Labbe: Engineer turned golf problem solver03:15 – From business exit to golf obsession04:32 – Inventing a method from scratch06:15 – How math beats guesswork on the green11:03 – The 25-year road to writing the book12:37 – Making the science accessible to all golfers25:33 – Real success stories from everyday players34:04 – Pre-shot routines and understanding power factor35:32 – Practice commitment and improvement curve38:09 – Why this works on any green, anywhere40:55 – Mindset, confidence, and emotional focus44:20 – Injuries, aging, and staying in the game46:38 – What legacy looks like after the game50:19 – Lightning Round1:02:23 – Final thoughts and farewell📘 Grab your copy of "Putting By the Numbers" by Bob Labbe here.If this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailDr. Matthew Kutz, a global leadership expert, scholar, and prostate cancer survivor, joins Sid Bensalah for a powerful and candid conversation about identity, resilience, and faith in the face of real suffering. Diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer, Matt shares how pain became a teacher and how purpose deepened through adversity.He shares his initial shock, a shift in his mindset, and how faith, family, and community help him navigate dark times. Using personal stories and biblical examples like Joseph and David, Matt reflects on HOPE, emotional growth, and the courage to keep moving forward.Through his EPIC framework and his cancer support foundation, Battle for the Bulge, Matt demonstrates how leadership and vulnerability can coexist. He also discusses emotional intimacy in marriage, staying grounded as a father, and how suffering can shape a legacy.00:00 Introduction and Catching Up00:26 The Last 5K and Prostate Cancer Diagnosis01:31 Joseph's Story and Its Lessons03:40 Personal Reflections on Pain and Faith08:24 Matt's Journey: From Diagnosis to Treatment15:05 The Emotional Impact of Cancer20:00 Facing the Reality of Cancer Spread28:32 Hope, Faith, and Overcoming Adversity33:53 David and Goliath: Drawing Strength from Stories36:43 The Lions and Bears List: Finding Strength in Past Victories39:10 Community Support and Sharing Stories40:23 Introduction to the Epic Framework40:41 Facing the Reality of Cancer Treatment43:24 Turning Adversity into Opportunity45:06 The Birth of 'Becoming Epic.'54:42 Battle for the Bulge: A Prostate Cancer Foundation58:14 The Importance of Community and Support01:05:37 Mindset Shift: From Coach to Patient01:25:37 Marriage Advice: The Importance of Intimacy01:36:52 Faith Through Adversity01:59:44 Lightning Round: Quick Insights02:02:34 Final Thoughts and FarewellIf this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode, host Sid Bensalah speaks with Kandace Kalin, a former elite synchronized swimmer and founder of O2 Sports Insurance. Kandace opens up about her personal journey — from the rigor of competitive athletics to the boardroom — sharing how grief, wrongful termination, and profound loss reshaped her career and mission. She discusses how the resilience, structure, and discipline from her swimming career helped her build a purpose-driven business that now champions mental health and athlete support in the insurance world.The episode dives into themes of sports leadership, female entrepreneurship, identity after athletics, and building mentally healthy workplaces — especially in male-dominated industries.Whether you're an athlete, executive, coach, or parent, Kandace’s story delivers a masterclass in rebuilding from rock bottom, leading with empathy, and turning adversity into impact.00:00 From Setback to CEO: Kandace Kalin’s Playbook for Rebuilding After Loss03:11 Overcoming Personal Tragedy ‌05:13 Lessons from Synchronized Swimming07:19 Transitioning from Athlete to Entrepreneur14:24 Challenges and Triumphs in Business22:15 Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry29:36 Creating a Supportive Work Environment33:38 Making a Difference Through Sponsorships35:50 Balancing Parenting and Career38:05 Teaching Resilience to Children41:58 Future Goals for O2 Sports Insurance44:52 Lightning Round: Quick Insights47:50 Reflections on Resilience and LegacyTopics Covered Athlete to entrepreneur transformationWomen in the sports businessMental health and workplace cultureLeadership and resilienceParenting and purposeFemale CEOs in insuranceSports career transitionsBuilding mission-driven companiesIf this conversation moved you or gave you perspective, consider supporting the show. Fuel our Mission Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sid Bensalah welcomes Radha Balani, Partner and Director of Strategy at Think Beyond, for an honest conversation about purpose, performance, and progress in sport. From her deep experience shaping strategies for some of the world’s most iconic clubs and brands, Radha breaks down how sport can—and should—be a vehicle for social change, commercial growth, and community impact.The episode explores why sport can’t fake purpose, how storytelling connects fans to values, and what it takes to turn corporate talk into measurable action. They discuss bold moves by clubs like Liverpool FC, the shift from philanthropy to shared value, and why data shows purpose-driven brands outperform their peers.Radha doesn’t shy away from hard truths. She calls out systemic issues in the industry, from performative sustainability to gender inequality, and offers grounded, practical advice for sports executives who want to lead with integrity and impact.Timestamps00:00 How Storytelling Drives Purpose in Sport – With Radha Balani of Think Beyond 01:30 The Role of Sports Beyond Results and Revenue 04:26 The Power of Storytelling in Sports 10:07 Translating Purpose into Action 30:01 The Impact of Purpose on Performance30:22 From Philanthropy to Shared Value 32:00 Data Supporting Purpose-Driven Companies 33:49 Challenges in the Sports Industry 35:37 Addressing Inequality in Women's Sports 44:00 The Role of Athletes in Social Change 48:26 Advice for CEOs and GMs 50:08 Inconvenient Truths in the Industry 52:23 Lightning Round Q&A 55:59 Closing ThoughtsWith her trademark mix of honesty, logic, and warmth, Radha gives listeners a clear view of what the future of sport could—and should—look like.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode, Janet Irizarry, founder of My Mindful Kitchen, joins host Sid Bensalah to discuss how the kitchen can influence more than just meals — it can shape minds, values, and legacies. From owning restaurants to launching a food advocacy movement, Janet shares her journey, sparked by a powerful line in her son's college essay: There was never food in the house.Together, they explore how daily kitchen routines can teach leadership, gratitude, responsibility, and empathy—while also addressing real-world issues like food insecurity, climate change, and emotional connections within families. Janet explains the importance of intentional meals, reducing food waste, and using food as a tool to teach emotional intelligence and sustainability.Topics CoveredThe hidden power of family meals• How the kitchen becomes a classroom for values• Practical ways to reduce food waste• Using food to lead with empathy and purpose• Stories that blend food, memory, and identityChapters00:00 Title and Theme01:52 The Impact of Family Dinners05:40 Reducing Food Waste08:10 Teaching Leadership Through Food15:12 Climate Change Connections18:28 Cooking and Social Media Pressure41:22 Eating Local and Seasonal44:01 Enlightened Hospitality47:23 Cooking with Love53:43 The Mindful Kitchen Method55:43 Food Waste Meets Poverty57:23 Tips for Sustainable Family Meals01:04:49 Lightning Round01:11:45 Final Thoughts on Empathy and FoodSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode, host Sid Bensalah is joined by Joshua Harrison, co-founder of Leaf Island and co-director of the Center for the Study of the Force Majeure. Together, they unpack how cities around the world can use nature—not just to survive climate stress—but to regenerate and thrive.This isn't theory. It's about real solutions already in play.We explore:Turning recycled Styrofoam into high-performance green roof soilRethinking urban metabolism using modular plant systemsConfronting the empty promises of COP climate summitsAnd how clean progress can start on your rooftop—not in a faraway boardroomJoshua brings sharp insight from the field, from composting in NYC to working with island communities in the Caribbean, blending systems thinking, urban ecology, and creative storytelling into one timely conversation.00:00 How Cities Can Cool Themselves: Climate Design with Joshua Harrison  00:32 Composting and Recycling in Cities  02:20 UN Climate Conference and Environmental Irony  02:54 Indigenous Protests and Global Climate Events  04:04 Challenges of Hosting Global Conferences  07:05 Introduction to Joshua Harrison  07:36 The Role of Nature in Urban Regeneration  09:24 Cultural Development in the Caribbean  19:22 Climate Migration and Global Inequality  30:03 The Importance of Storytelling in Climate Systems  35:22 Innovative Green Roof Solutions  38:54 Introduction to Bioactive Soil  39:21 Hydroponics vs. Traditional Soil  39:53 Benefits of GaiaSoil™  41:09 Urban Greening and Climate Impact  44:33 Economic and Community Benefits  48:40 Challenges and Solutions for Green Cities  52:06 Leadership and Climate Action  56:01 Youth Activism and Global Climate Efforts  58:51 Reflections on Climate Leadership  01:06:50 Hope for the Future  01:10:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and deeply personal episode, Sid Bensalah sits down with Mark Motsenbocker, a seasoned executive, mentor, and author of “Searching for Father: Lessons From a Son’s Journey.”Mark opens up about the life-altering loss of his parents in a tragic car accident when he was just 8 years old. With raw honesty, he shares how that trauma shaped his journey, and how his grandmother and a series of father figures stepped in to guide him toward leadership, character, and faith.The conversation goes far beyond personal grief, touching on universal themes like fatherlessness, community support, resilience, mentorship, faith, and legacy. From boardrooms to backyards, Mark’s life story is a masterclass in turning suffering into service, pain into purpose, and hardship into hope.00:00 – Searching for Father: Legacy, Loss & Leadership00:12 – A Tragic Loss and Its Impact00:45 – The Role of Grandmother01:07 – Fatherlessness: A Silent Epidemic05:21 – Community Support and Resilience08:47 – The Power of Presence and Giving10:43 – Influence of Father Figures13:09 – Acts of Kindness and Community32:46 – Teaching Values to the Next Generation39:20 – Coping with Loss and Discovering Optimism42:00 – The Power of Hope and Faith49:24 – Leadership and Mentorship01:03:09 – Family, Legacy, and Living with Intention01:05:06 – Writing and Publishing “Searching for Father”01:14:57 – Final Reflections and Timeless WisdomKey TakeawaysFatherlessness is a silent epidemic. Mentorship matters.Grief can shape character when met with love and presence.True leadership is about consistency, humility, and service.Legacy lives in everyday acts of kindness and giving.Faith, family, and community are the pillars of lasting impact.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailMiles Reynolds, a sports entrepreneur, founder, and president of Legendary Sports Construction, host of the Pickleball Builders Podcast, and board member of Southern Nevada Pickleball, has become one of the most influential voices in America's fastest-growing sport. With experience in business development, community outreach, and youth engagement, Miles has helped elevate pickleball from a backyard activity into a cultural and commercial movement.In this conversation with Sid Bensalah, Miles shares his experience of surviving colon cancer, his commitment to staying grounded in faith and gratitude, and how pickleball has influenced his family life.He offers his perspective on youth development, what makes a pickleball community thrive, and the sport's potential to become an Olympic event.00:00 – The Pickleball Boom: How Miles Reynolds Is Building More Than Courts00:01 – Introduction and Welcome00:04 – The Rise of Pickleball00:58 – Sustainable Growth in Pickleball02:11 – Miles Reynolds: A Journey in Sports Entrepreneurship10:35 – The Impact of the Pandemic on Pickleball20:01 – Challenges and Costs in Building Pickleball Courts26:31 – Personal Stories and Family Moments30:02 – A Surprise 50th Birthday Party31:52 – The Importance of Youth Engagement in Pickleball35:06 – Promoting Pickleball in Schools37:46 – Pickleball as a Corporate and Community Activity40:02 – Surviving Colon Cancer: A Life-Changing Experience44:26 – Faith and Resilience Through Adversity50:06 – The Ideal Pickleball Community53:41 – Pickleball's Olympic Potential55:29 – Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Insights58:37 – Final Thoughts and AdviceThis episode combines sports, leadership, community, and resilience into a story that inspires and informs. Whether you're a fan, coach, builder, or just curious about pickleball, there's something here for you.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailChris Baron is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, Series Producer for National Geographic and the BBC, and host of the No Ordinary Monday podcast.He has filmed in some of the most extreme environments on the planet. From volcanoes to minefields, from deep caves to active war zones, his career is defined by curiosity, courage, and calculated risk. In this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah dives into Chris’s transition from molecular microbiology to documentary filmmaking and what it takes to lead, observe, and create under pressure.This conversation explores how fear can be a tool, why leadership matters most in chaos, and how real innovation often happens where no one’s looking.Pre-Zero Sports Talk brings you stories of sports, leadership, faith, performance, coaching, community, innovation, and clean progress from Sweden to the world.00:00 Intro00:01 Meet Chris Baron, From Science to Storytelling01:40 The Journey from Lab to Lens07:43 Challenges and Lessons in Documentary Filmmaking17:46 Leadership in Extreme Conditions24:37 Creative Problem Solving in Filmmaking30:58 Audience and Success in Documentary Production35:08 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity35:59 The Thrill of Facing Fears37:25 Diverging Views on Horror Films41:23 Understanding Fear, Helpful vs Harmful42:41 The Inspiration Behind No Ordinary Monday45:14 Memorable Podcast Conversations48:38 The Interfaith Church Experience51:20 Passion vs Purpose in Filmmaking52:55 The Realities of Working in Television01:02:05 Finding Wonder in Science and Nature01:06:50 Reflections on Life, Death, and Purpose01:09:13 Hope for the Future01:10:27 AI in Filmmaking01:14:36 Embracing AI, Challenges and Opportunities01:16:09 Lightning Round, Quick Questions01:21:02 Closing ThoughtsSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sid Bensalah sits down with Sandy Cohan, an elite mindset architect, former professional hockey coach, global keynote speaker, and best-selling author of the UNSHAKABLE: 99 Rules series.Together, they unpack what it really takes to perform under pressure—on the field, in the locker room, at home, and in life. Sandy shares how true confidence is built over time, not through hype or hustle, but by doing the reps, reflecting on mistakes, and recovering with purpose.From youth sports to elite performance, this episode offers practical tools, real-life stories, and valuable insights for anyone in sports, leadership, or high-performance roles.00:00 Flip the Switch: Building Grit, Belief, and Mental Clarity with Sandy Cohan00:04 Building Confidence: Reps, Reflection, and Recovery01:26 Exploring Mental Performance in Sports02:05 Sandy Cohan’s Journey and Insights02:39 The Importance of Mindset in Sports06:58 Leadership and Clarity in Team Sports09:51 Flipping the Switch: Compete Mode11:50 The Seven Pillars of the Mental Edge Blueprint13:34 Focus and Grit: Keys to High Performance15:01 Handling Pressure and Mental Toughness20:53 Identifying and Preventing Burnout31:39 Parental Support in Youth Sports38:44 Reframing for Problem Solving39:47 The Ride Home After a Game41:22 Staying Quiet and Letting Kids Process44:27 Coaching Parents and Young Athletes46:05 Common Mistakes Parents Make47:30 Understanding Athlete Psychology49:39 Socioeconomics in Sports Development52:54 Building Belief and Confidence59:52 Sandy's Book Series: Unshakeable01:10:05 Lightning Round Q&ALearn more → https://www.mentaledgehockey.com/Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Sid Bensalah welcomes Lesle Lane, founder and lead photographer at Studio 13 in Indianapolis and a former U.S. national-level figure skater. Lesle’s story blends high performance, artistic leadership, and entrepreneurial grit.From her early mornings on the ice to reimagining a third-generation photography business, Lesle unpacks the mindset, mentorship, and moments that shaped her purpose. She reflects on failing a skating test seven times and how that grit carried over into running a creative business, mentoring photographers, and leading with authenticity.You’ll also hear her take on gender bias in the creative industry, how she’s embraced AI in commercial photography, and what legacy means when balancing personal standards with community impact.00:00 From Ice Rinks to Industry: Lesle Lane on Discipline, Legacy & Leadership01:07 Leslie Lane's Background and Early Passion for Skating01:40 The Discipline and Independence of Skating03:31 Lessons from Coaches and Dealing with Failure06:47 Transition to Photography and Overcoming Business Challenges10:57 Balancing Personal and Professional Life25:28 Taking Over the Family Business27:34 Challenges of Being a Female Photographer29:28 Proud Achievements and Milestones31:45 Navigating Gender and Age Bias33:40 Advice for Women Leaders35:34 Importance of Mentorship37:49 Adapting to Technological Changes44:09 Personal Legacy and Impact48:11 Lightning Round Q&AKey TakeawaysSports can teach lifelong discipline and leadershipGrit is built through failure and tested in businessCoaching others reveals more about yourselfBeing a female leader in commercial photography requires courage and clarityAI is changing the creative space, but not replacing human visionMentorship isn’t optional; it’s a responsibilityLegacy is built moment by moment, with intentionSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn episode #80, Sid Bensalah discusses with Marat Omarov, founder of The ARK, a regenerative village in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, to explore one of the most radical life changes ever featured on the show.Born and raised in Kazakhstan during the collapse of the Soviet Union, Marat shares how his early life in a strict, hierarchical system of military school, government service, and major political projects like Expo 2017 ultimately left him burned out and disconnected.What followed was a complete reset: moving away from structured power to rediscovering freedom in Mexico and eventually establishing a community based on regenerative living, shared ownership, and purpose-driven leadership in Costa Rica.Together, they explore:The difference between sustainability and regenerationWhy Traditional Leadership Models Are FailingHow The ARK challenges current beliefs about land, ownership, and successThe mental and emotional toll of high-performance careers, and ways to recoverReal stories of transformation from people who have visited or joined The ARK00:00 Why Marat Omarov Left It All to Build a Regenerative Future in Costa Rica00:01 Introduction and Greetings01:59 Marat's Early Life in Kazakhstan04:04 Military School and Early Leadership06:43 Struggles and Realizations08:35 Return to Kazakhstan and Political Involvement17:09 Burnout and Transition to Mexico21:10 The Birth of ARK27:29 Living in Costa Rica28:07 Reflections on Mexico and Costa Rica29:01 The Concept of Regenerative Living29:46 Sustainability vs. Regeneration30:45 Expo 2017 and Public Understanding40:01 Challenges of Hierarchical Structures46:52 The Vision for the ARK Community48:56 Future of Living and Leadership50:58 Lightning Round Q&ASupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn episode#79, host Sid Bensalah talks with Tareq Nazlawy, CEO of the sports-tech startup Trace and former Senior Director of Digital Strategy at Adidas. Tareq explains how he's closing the gap between elite sports brands and the 99% of fans who never enter a stadium by turning live sports moments into personal, digital experiences fans can truly own.From launching Adidas' CONFIRMED app to leading the Into the Metaverse NFT drop, and now building Trace in partnership with the ATP Tour, Tareq discusses the future of sports, storytelling, and the power of digital fandom.We explore leadership transitions from corporate to startup life, the emotional value of blockchain collectibles, and how Trace is rethinking global fan engagement across sports like Formula One, tennis, and beyond.00:00 – From Adidas to Trace: Changing the way fans connect01:35 – Tareq’s journey from Adidas to entrepreneurship04:28 – Lessons from leadership in the corporate world07:23 – The origin story of Trace11:49 – What Trace really is: fan connection through digital ownership20:14 – Partnering with the ATP and early feedback26:14 – Growing Trace: challenges and vision33:46 – Building emotional connection with fans34:19 – Turning passive fans into active participants35:44 – Why D2C in sports is hard38:29 – Market strategy & reaching global fans42:05 – Entering new sports verticals: motorsport, football, more46:10 – Understanding new patterns in sports consumption50:50 – Engagement differences: F1 vs. Tennis54:50 – What fan connection could look like in 203059:59 – Lightning Round: favorite moments, advice & more01:05:36 – Final thoughts on legacy, leadership & fandomSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Sid Bensalah is joined by Carlee Wolfe, a coach, inclusion strategist, and Paralympic pipeline leader with nearly 20 years of experience in volleyball and athlete development.From working with USA Sitting Volleyball to volunteering with the Bennett Blazers at Kennedy Krieger Institute, Carlee has championed access to adaptive sports at every level. She also led impactful initiatives in leadership development and organizational effectiveness at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee and Under Armour, always focusing on helping individuals and teams succeed.This conversation dives deep into:What it takes to create fair access to sportsHow community programs act as drivers of inclusionThe visibility gap in Paralympic coverageCoaching Beyond Performance MetricsAnd why purpose, rather than titles, should guide leadershipFrom grassroots programs to global competitions, Carlee shares personal stories and practical insights that reflect what clean progress looks like in action.00:00 Game Changers with Carlee Wolfe01:29 Carlee’s Career and Adaptive Sports06:17 Talent Identification in Adaptive Sports10:10 Challenges Faced by Adaptive Athletes12:49 Holistic Coaching in Adaptive Sports17:35 Community Programs as Equity Engines23:44 Elevating Adaptive Sports Coverage27:39 Paralympic Athlete Struggles29:52 Building Infrastructure and Equity34:07 Vision for the Future36:18 Financial and Policy Support39:29 The Role of Media and Sponsorship45:52 Lightning Round50:59 Final ThoughtsExplore the Bennett Blazers Program: Kennedy Krieger InstituteDiscover more from Move United: moveunitedsport.orgMeet the USA Sitting Volleyball Team: usavolleyball.orgSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailNavigating college admissions has never been more complicated, especially for student-athletes. In this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah meets with Shellee Howard, a global college strategist, TEDx speaker, and founder of College Ready, to explore the truth behind scholarships, NIL, and the mental stress faced by young athletes today.Shellee shares her personal journey from guiding her son to Harvard debt-free to helping thousands of families make smarter, more intentional college decisions. They explore the myth of the “full ride,” the emotional impact of the NIL era, and why sports should be a tool for growth rather than a financial gamble.Whether you're a parent, coach, or student, this episode features real stories, valuable insights, and practical takeaways to help you prepare not just for college but for life after the game.00:00 Beyond Scholarships: Coaching Student-Athletes for Life01:17 Meet Shellee Howard: A Journey to College Ready04:33 The Challenges of Scholar Athletes06:30 The Financial Realities of Athletic Scholarships09:11 Case Study: Water Polo Athlete's Journey13:42 Long-Term Growth vs. Short-Term Wins24:57 Navigating College Affordability25:47 Trump’s Executive Order on NIL26:47 Parental Guidance in College Selection29:22 The NIL Debate and Its Implications37:34 Challenges for Female Athletes in Admissions43:03 Growing College Ready into a Movement48:06 Lightning Round: Personal Insights50:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for Parents- Learn more about Shellee hereSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailLynn Colepaugh, a former bass guitar player, strategist, storyteller, and human AI collaborator, joins Sid Bensalah to discuss her fascinating career shift from touring with a Jimi Hendrix cover band to running a strategy agency. Lynn shares insights on transitioning from the music industry to marketing, managing burnout, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and the pivotal role of AI in her current work. She also reflects on how athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs can protect their performance by focusing on personal well-being. The episode explores Lynn's perspectives on AI's impact on education, its potential to improve personal and professional lives, and offers guidance for those considering AI adoption. Lynn emphasizes the importance of starting where you are, understanding your personal goals, and balancing ambition with well-being. This insightful conversation touches on themes of identity, community support, innovation, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.00:00 Morning Greetings and Autumn Anticipation00:28 From Musician to Marketing Strategist02:48 Touring Challenges and Burnout05:19 Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome05:59 Redefining Identity Beyond Music09:30 Parallels Between Artists, Athletes, and Entrepreneurs12:24 Supporting Student Athletes and Artists15:52 Burnout: A Systemic Issue17:16 The Reality of Fame and Substance Abuse27:04 Balancing Career and Personal Life36:21 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership39:42 Collaborating with AI40:32 Avoiding AI: Personal Reflections41:11 AI in Content Creation and Music43:17 Personal Experiences with ChatGPT44:52 AI's Role in Personal Support50:07 AI in Sports and Coaching57:55 AI in Education: Challenges and Opportunities01:02:18 The Future of AI in Schools01:12:04 Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Insights01:16:25 Final Thoughts and FarewellLearn more about Lynn → https://cyberprarmy.comSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to nurture and guide kids through the challenges of a changing climate? In this episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah speaks with Bridget Shirvell, award-winning journalist and author of Parenting in a Climate Crisis. Drawing on her reporting, conversations with climate scientists, educators, and psychologists, as well as her own experiences as a parent, Bridget shares how families can move beyond fear and foster resilience, curiosity, and hope in the next generation.Together, they explore the everyday challenges parents face, from children’s curiosity about electric cars to balancing sustainability choices without falling into perfectionism. Bridget highlights why small actions matter, how nature builds emotional strength, and the role of schools, sports, and community in preparing climate-aware citizens. She also opens up about her writing process and how she transformed years of research and personal experiences into a practical guide for parents.If you’re a parent, coach, or community leader looking for real stories, actionable advice, and encouragement to raise climate-strong kids, this conversation is for you.00:00 Parenting in a Climate Crisis: How to Nurture Resilient Kids00:06 Discussing Children's Curiosity01:27 Introducing the Guest: Bridget02:06 Inspiration Behind the Book02:37 Parenting and Climate Crisis05:46 Addressing Climate Fears08:54 Mental Shifts for Parents13:17 Engaging with Children on Climate19:41 Supporting Systems: Schools and Community21:44 Student-Led Sustainability Initiatives24:15 Rebranding Sustainability24:51 COP Conferences and Climate Action28:28 Electric Vehicles and Sustainability30:00 The Writing Process40:48 Climate Preparedness for 203042:06 Hope for the Next Generation43:12 Lightning Round Q&A47:52 Final Thoughts and FarewellTo learn more about Bridget Shirvell and her work, visit: https://breeshirvell.comSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 74, host Sid Bensalah talks with Bishop Kevin Foreman, founder of Harvest Church and a strong voice in faith-based leadership, civic innovation, and whole-person coaching. Broadcasting from Sweden to the world, this conversation explores how grit, faith, and performance shape lives and communities.Bishop Kevin shares his journey from modest beginnings, explaining how business setbacks led to a breakthrough in his ministry, and how sports coaching principles influenced his leadership style. From creating a digital-first church community to shaping public policy in Denver, his story combines purpose, resilience, and modern leadership grounded in core values.We examine the link between spiritual growth and physical transformation, the importance of responsible digital platform use, and how faith leaders can empower marginalized communities while navigating political and civic spaces. Whether you're a coach, athlete, leader, or someone seeking meaning in performance and service, this episode offers valuable insights with global relevance.00:00 Lead With Grit: Coaching, Faith, and Community with Bishop Kevin Foreman01:51 Early Life and Influences05:45 Sports and Discipline08:49 Building a Real Estate Empire11:52 Founding Harvest Church20:53 Embracing Digital Ministry34:54 Civic Leadership and Policy Change39:05 Late Night Leadership39:37 Balancing Public Leadership and Spiritual Voice40:10 Politicians and Faith44:00 Empowering the Marginalized45:29 Religion in Public Schools52:11 Personal Transformation Journey58:13 Global Digital Reach01:03:49 Lightning Round Q&A Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Sid Bensalah speaks with Jim Caruso, Chief Innovation Officer at One Elevate, about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the sports industry. Jim brings a fresh perspective from his journey through enterprise tech and advertising, into helping global sports leagues solve real-world challenges with real-time data.Together, they unpack how AI can elevate strategy, optimize the fan experience, and change how sponsors connect with teams and audiences—without losing the human element.Key Topics:AI's role in enhancing live fan experiencesHow tech solves the “last mile” in data strategyReal examples of AI improving decision-makingSponsorship, branding & predictive marketingThe future of human + AI collaboration in sportsTimestamps00:00 How AI Is Changing Sports Strategy00:50 Sid’s Intro & Jim’s Background02:19 Jim’s Unconventional Journey05:40 AI as a Tool in Sports Innovation14:26 Personalizing the Fan Experience34:33 Smarter Sponsorship & Brand Fit40:51 Negotiation, AI & Human Intuition41:46 Predictive Tools for Fan Behavior43:21 Sports Marketing: ROI Measurement44:33 AI + AdTech in Live Sports50:10 Smarter Decision-Making in Sports55:23 The Global AI Innovation Race01:01:07 The Future of Sports x AI01:03:53 Lightning Round: Fast Takes01:12:17 Closing Thoughts🎙️ Subscribe & Listen: https://prezerosportstalk.com📲 Watch the full interview on YouTube + SpotifySupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode #72, Sid Bensalah talks with Kevin Pallaoro, CEO of Teton Waters Ranch, to challenge everything you think you know about beef, methane, and sustainability.From his upbringing on a Colorado cattle ranch to leading one of America’s most purpose-driven grass-fed beef companies, Kevin shares a grounded and unfiltered look at regenerative ranching, the truth about methane, and what it really takes to produce meat that heals both people and the planet.They dive deep into:The myths behind cattle and climate changeHow soil health connects to human healthGreenwashing in the meat industryWhy regenerative ranching isn’t a trend, it’s a return to accountabilityWhat it means to lead with integrity in an industry built on volume and speedPlus, Kevin opens up about the economic challenges of sustainable beef, the labeling loopholes, and how Teton is working to make better beef more accessible to everyday families.Whether you're a skeptic, rancher, athlete, or just someone trying to eat better, this conversation offers clarity in a sea of confusion.Episode Timeline:00:00 – The Beef Debate: Regenerative Meat & Climate00:01 – Morning Routines & First Coffee01:52 – Guest Intro: Kevin’s Ranching Roots05:13 – Questioning the Meat Industry Status Quo07:57 – Why Regenerative > Industrial11:34 – What “Regenerative” Really Means22:20 – Incentives & Real Challenges in the Field25:33 – Methane, Media & Misinformation38:54 – Can Regenerative Scale Economically?41:04 – Raising Cattle Responsibly42:20 – Teton’s Mission: Affordable, Ethical Beef45:26 – Label Claims vs. Real Practices49:40 – Integrity-Driven Leadership in Ag58:48 – Policy Roadblocks & Food System Realities01:17:55 – Final Thoughts & Call to ActionSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode#71 host Sid Bensalah chats with Greg Lothian, an accomplished athlete, therapist, biomechanics innovator, and founder of Acculete. Greg discusses his journey from varsity sports to private practice, revealing pivotal moments that led him to redefine rehabilitation methods. The conversation explores the challenges of traditional rehab, the importance of long-term commitment, and the need for evidence-based practice. Greg elaborates on his unique approach to client care, emphasizing comprehensive assessments, reconditioning stages, and the power of real-time data. The episode concludes with insights into his personal experiences and practical advice for emerging physical health practitioners.00:00 Introduction and Ultra Marathon Discussion00:47 Meet Greg Ian: Athlete, Therapist, Innovator01:30 Challenges in Traditional Rehab03:56 The Importance of a Year-Long Commitment19:19 Acculete: Revolutionizing Rehab with Technology30:43 Addressing the Root Cause of Pain31:57 Industry Standards and Symptom Therapy34:12 Treating Clients Like Elite Athletes37:44 The Vitality Pathway Concept43:32 Stages of Reconditioning49:00 Defining Success in Physical Therapy53:19 Embracing AI in Physical Therapy55:03 Lightning Round Q&A57:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 70 of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah welcomes Louis De Jaeger—author and global regenerative agriculture advocate—to explore how soil health impacts human performance, nutrition, and sustainability. Louis shares powerful insights from his book, SOS Save Our Soils, emphasizing the urgent need to regenerate 550 million hectares worldwide to ensure food security and combat climate change.Discover how soil quality directly impacts gut health, nutrition, mental clarity, and physical performance.From the hidden dangers of pesticides and the challenges of corporate farming, to actionable solutions for athletes and communities, Louis provides real-world stories and practical guidance to drive positive change. 00:00 Save Our Soils: Food, Farming & Performance00:12 The Importance of Rain for Agriculture00:50 Soil's Connection to Human Health01:58 Introducing Louis De Jaeger02:29 Regenerating 550 Million Hectares: Louis’s Mission04:12 Experiences with Desertification07:29 Challenges & Solutions in Soil Regeneration10:06 Health Benefits of Regenerative Farming13:23 Political and Economic Barriers16:05 The Role of Microorganisms in Soil Health33:45 Regenerative vs. Organic Farming35:38 Nutritional Advice for Athletes38:55 The Plastic Dilemma: Health vs. Environment40:14 Challenges in Adopting Regenerative Practices41:33 Influence of Lobbyists and Market Demand44:06 Impact of Pesticides on Communities45:20 Corporate Agriculture & Greenwashing47:47 Community Action Against Pesticides53:34 Farmers' Struggles and Protests56:07 Debunking Myths About Feeding the World58:29 Urgency of Soil Regeneration01:02:33 Writing ‘SOS Save Our Soil’01:11:19 Lightning Round: Quick Questions with LouisJoin Louis and Sid to discover practical ways athletes, communities, and individuals can support healthier soils, improved nutrition, and better performance.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this deeply inspiring episode, host Sid Bensalah talks with Kate Grant, CEO of the Fistula Foundation and author of the memoir No Woman Left Behind. Kate shares her remarkable journey from Capitol Hill and Madison Avenue to leading a globally respected nonprofit dedicated to restoring dignity to women suffering from obstetric fistula across Africa and Asia.Through stories from the field, Kate demonstrates how smart compassion—empathy paired with strategy can drive systemic change in women’s health and explain why empowering even one woman can uplift entire communities. She also discusses the leadership challenges she has faced, the importance of trust-based partnerships, and how her advertising background has contributed to the development of one of the world’s most effective global health organizations.Timestamps00:00 – Smart Compassion, Women’s Health & Global Leadership00:18 – The Ripple Effect of Healing One Woman01:33 – Meet Kate Grant & Fistula Foundation02:03 – Her Life-Changing Visit to Ethiopia03:42 – From Corporate Branding to Humanitarian Action08:59 – Real-World Challenges in Nonprofit Leadership12:22 – Redefining Compassion: Effective Altruism & Results22:17 – Trust-Based Partnerships Across Africa32:49 – Scaling with Integrity, Staying Mission-Driven35:38 – What Fistula Surgery Involves41:34 – Health as the Foundation of Women’s Empowerment44:38 – Kate’s Principles on Leadership & Resilience48:05 – What’s Next for Fistula Foundation57:20 – Lightning Round: The Human Side of Kate Grant- Kate Grant’s inspiring memoir, No Woman Left Behind, is now available on Amazon. All proceeds support life-changing surgeries through the Love a Sister program. Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah sits down with veteran coach and educator Darren Ault, author of Out of Bounds. They explore the growing crisis of parental interference in youth sports, how power dynamics inside school systems fail coaches and players, and what authentic leadership, accountability, and community support should look like in today’s sports culture. This episode is a must-watch for coaches, parents, educators, and anyone passionate about youth development through sports.00:00 – Welcome to Pre-Zero Sports Talk w/ Darren Ault00:39 – What inspired Out of Bounds, and why Darren wrote it03:31 – Real-life challenges coaches face with parental politics06:48 – How schools fail coaches: Inside Darren’s suspension11:30 – Community support vs. silence: Who stands up for truth?13:59 – Leadership under pressure: Where school systems break33:54 – Lessons from Extreme Ownership for coaches and educators37:41 – How school boards can adopt high-accountability models41:26 – Teaching discipline and resilience in today’s youth43:02 – What NIL means for parents, scholarships, and player pressure48:00 – The mental toll of modern coaching in high school sports56:42 – What parents & coaches must understand to help kids thrive01:01:24 – Writing the book: Healing, reflection, and storytelling01:07:09 – Lightning Round: Darren gets personal01:13:22 – Final thoughts on leadership, integrity, and redemptionSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this must-listen episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah sits down with George Dom, aviation executive, author, and former Blue Angels Flight Leader and Topgun instructor. Together, they explore what it takes to build high-trust, high-performance teams in some of the most demanding environments on earth.George shares how trust, character, and competence can transform a group of individuals into an elite, resilient team capable of excellence under extreme pressure. Drawing from his experience leading combat missions, commanding squadrons, and performing breathtaking aerial maneuvers with the Blue Angels, George brings powerful lessons on mental resilience, accountability, empathy, and communication.They unpack George’s acclaimed book High-Trust Leadership, diving into his five pillars of trust and why proactive trust-building is essential for leaders in sports, business, and beyond. George also reflects on the challenges of writing and editing his book, the impact of movies like Top Gun on the fighter pilot community, and the leadership trends he sees shaping the future.Whether you’re a coach, athlete, entrepreneur, or executive, this conversation is filled with real, actionable insights that will elevate your leadership game.00:00 High-Trust Leadership and Peak Performance00:28 Introduction to George Dom02:14 George Dom's Leadership Journey04:13 Lessons from the Blue Angels08:20 The Importance of Trust17:34 Building High-Performance Teams27:08 The Five Pillars of Trust35:50 Writing the Book38:01 Developing Mental Resilience39:41 Training for G Forces41:53 The Power of Visualization45:21 Balancing Trust and Accountability46:57 Empathy in Leadership52:13 Creating a Culture of Feedback58:55 Emerging Leadership Trends01:01:48 Lightning RoundListen now and learn how to lead with trust, even when the stakes couldn’t be higher.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, Sid interviews Frank Kelly III — former athlete, CEO of Kelly Benefits, coach, author, and faith-driven leader — to explore the deep links between sports, faith, business, and legacy.Frank shares about growing up in a mission-focused family, how his time in Japan changed his perspective on success, and why spiritual grounding is essential in both the boardroom and the locker room. He reflects on servant leadership, loss, family, and how Scripture guides his leadership of over 500 people today.We also explore the role of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, his inspiring writing journey, and his reaction to the historic election of Pope Leo XIV,  the first American Pope.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro and Guest Welcome02:29 – Pope Leo XIV: Faith meets history05:10 – Mission-driven family values06:18 – Athletic journey at Cornell10:02 – From performance to purpose13:18 – Wrestling with faith and identity16:10 – Saying “yes” to the family business19:23 – Lessons from Japan and redefining success23:14 – Running a scripture-guided business32:13 – Family legacy and faith at scale34:10 – Prayer, succession, and future vision37:45 – Losing well and resilience40:58 – The FCA story and empowering youth47:20 – His books: Influence, The Creator’s Game, Look & See53:43 – Restoring community and connection58:47 – Lightning Round01:03:04 – Final thoughts and outroKey Takeaways:Faith and family are powerful leadership toolsResilience is shaped more by loss than by victoryServant leadership isn’t soft — it’s strategicYour business can reflect your beliefs — and still growLegacy isn’t what you leave behind — it’s what you build dailySupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Bryant & Rebecca Haines, the visionary co-founders of PixSeat—a revolutionary platform turning stadium crowds into synchronized, interactive experiences using fans' smartphones.From the spark of inspiration at an Alabama football game to live testing in arenas, Bryant and Rebecca walk us through their entrepreneurial journey, filled with technical challenges, creative breakthroughs, and a mission to change how fans connect with live events. PixSeat isn't just about spectacle; it's about meaningful engagement, crowd unity, and even real-time safety solutions, such as alerts for human trafficking.We explore how PixSeat is positioned to transform the live event landscape, with an eye on major launches, international expansion, and possible integration at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The Haines also reflect on their startup journey—navigating the pandemic, refining their pitch, building relationships with investors, and staying true to their mission-driven values.This episode is a must-listen for sports tech enthusiasts, event innovators, and anyone inspired by what’s possible when passion meets purpose.Key Moments:00:00 – Meet Bryant & Rebecca Haines01:54 – The idea that sparked PixSeat06:15 – How the tech works + innovation deep dive10:38 – Real-world testing & stadium integration18:30 – What sets PixSeat apart from competitors33:01 – Using technology for social impact38:09 – The fundraising story43:12 – Vision for the 2028 Olympics45:50 – Engineering challenges and creative solutions59:51 – Lightning Round: Meet the minds behind PixSeat1:15:38 – Final thoughts & contact info🎧 Tune in and discover how PixSeat is turning fans into the show.📲 Visit PixSeat.com to learn more.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Sid Bensalah interviews Brant Stachel—psychotherapist, massage therapist, and high-performance coach—on the overlooked mental side of athletic success. From Olympic hopefuls to weekend runners, Brant shares how mental resilience, emotional safety, and process-driven growth unlock true potential.You’ll hear Brant’s journey from struggling athlete to performance coach, practical frameworks like IGNITE for mental strength, and why focusing on “we-go” instead of ego builds better teams.Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply looking to sharpen your mental game, this episode delivers real stories, science-backed insights, and tools to help you win from within.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro01:42 – Brant’s Journey02:33 – Defining Mental Resilience08:08 – Process Over Outcome16:37 – IGNITE Mental Training31:49 – Safe Spaces for Athletes37:43 – Managing Pressure40:18 – Visualization & Mindfulness45:22 – Team vs. Individual Mindsets48:04 – Coaching Mistakes49:46 – Bouncing Back After Loss01:01:29 – Lightning Round01:04:26 – Outro👉 Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes: https://prezerosportstalk.com-  Follow Brant: https://milestonewellness.caSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Phil Pelucha, a former professional footballer turned sports business strategist and founder of the Pelucha Sports Academy.From being homeless at 14 to building a global 8-figure consultancy, Phil’s journey is a testament to resilience, purpose, and bold leadership. He shares how sports saved his life, why he created a means-tested academy to empower underprivileged athletes, and the leadership lessons that translate directly from the pitch to the boardroom.Phil also reveals how he helps businesses scale from six to eight figures, his mindset around fear and growth, and how his academy model is expanding into India and South America. This episode is packed with real stories, sharp business advice, and personal insights that will inspire athletes, entrepreneurs, and leaders alike.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Phil’s Journey02:39 – Founding the Pelucha Sports Academy04:13 – Building a Means-Tested Model09:14 – From Struggles to Success: Academy Stories21:34 – What Sports Teach Us About Leadership31:39 – How to Scale Businesses Fast40:22 – Thinking Bigger and Facing Fear43:20 – Mental Health in High-Pressure Roles45:31 – Advice for Facing Life’s Challenges46:31 – What Businesses Can Learn from Elite Teams51:19 – Lessons from Liverpool FC01:01:54 – Global Vision for the Academy01:07:28 – Lightning Round: Personal Insights01:13:19 – Closing Reflections🎧 Whether you’re a coach, CEO, or athlete, this episode will leave you motivated to lead, grow, and create impact.👉 Learn more about Phil Pelucha and his work at https://billionairesinboxers.comSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Dr. Chelsea Pierotti—sports psychology consultant, former professional ballet dancer, and host of the Passion for Dance podcast—to explore what it takes to perform under pressure in dance.From overcoming perfectionism and burnout to building confidence and redefining success, Chelsea shares real-life stories and practical strategies that help dancers train their minds like athletes. Whether you're a performer, coach, parent, or athlete, you'll find powerful insights on mental resilience, goal setting, and emotional regulation. Discover why dancers experience performance anxiety, how to bounce back from setbacks, and why mental skills are as crucial as physical ones. Chelsea also explains the difference between mental health and mental toughness, and how anyone can develop both. Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Background00:56 – Transition from Ballet to Sports Psychology06:40 – Setting Goals and Measuring Success10:07 – Overcoming Perfectionism and Building Confidence21:56 – Handling Performance Anxiety and Burnout28:17 – Recognizing Small Wins29:36 – Managing Parental Pressure in Youth Sports33:33 – Handling Rejection in Dance35:49 – Mental Health vs. Mental Toughness38:57 – Applying Mental Training Beyond Dance46:15 – Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Insights53:27 – Final Thoughts and Advice🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.Episode Quote: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." — Viktor Frankl👉 Learn more about Dr. Chelsea Pierotti:🌐 Website: chelseapierotti.com🎙 Podcast: Passion for Dance📸 Instagram: @dr.chelseapierottiSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with author, historian, and strength advocate Haley Shapley to unpack the forgotten stories and modern realities of women in fitness. Drawing from her acclaimed book Stronger Like Her, Haley takes us on a compelling journey through history, culture, and the pursuit of physical power, beyond aesthetics.From the surprising role of the bicycle in women’s emancipation to trailblazers like Kathrine Switzer, Pudgy Stockton, and Serena Williams, Haley shines a spotlight on women who defied norms and redefined what it means to be strong.They explore:Cultural myths that held women back from sportThe evolution of strength training and CrossFitRepresentation, body image, and the media’s roleGender equity in sports—including the fight for equal payWhy inclusivity in fitness is more important than everHaley’s personal journey, fitness philosophy, and writing processHaley also shares practical insights on building strength, her challenges with upper body training, and the more profound message she hopes young girls take from her work: You are stronger than you think.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:41 The Bicycle & Women’s Independence06:23 Kathrine Switzer’s Marathon Moment13:02 Social Barriers & Fitness Media22:04 The Power of Role Models in Sport26:18 Behind Stronger Like Her29:27 Haley’s Strength Training Journey32:23 Gender Equity & The US Women’s Soccer Team39:58 The Future of Women’s Fitness42:38 Lightning Round51:02 Final Thoughts🎧 Watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Episode Quote:“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” — Ayn Rand📲 Connect with Haley at haleyshapley.com and follow her on Instagram @haleyshapley.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan Mail- CONTENT WARNING -"This episode contains open and honest conversations about mental illness, substance use, and suicide. Some of these stories may be difficult to hear. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if needed."In Episode 60, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Tyler Kania, former rugby player, author of The Maniac with No Knees, and a raw, unfiltered mental health advocate. What follows is one of our most vulnerable and powerful conversations yet.Tyler opens up about his journey through undiagnosed Bipolar I Disorder, life-altering injuries, institutionalization, suicide attempts, and the road back to rugby. He shares how writing his book during a manic episode helped him process trauma, find purpose, and advocate for others living with severe mental health conditions.This episode is a deep dive into resilience, identity loss, and what it takes to survive when everything falls apart—and how rugby, community, and storytelling helped Tyler pull back.00:00 Content Warning00:01 Introduction to Tyler Kania00:59 Tyler’s Journey into Rugby01:20 Future Projects & Writing02:35 Leadership and Fly Half Role03:37 Super Bowl Thoughts04:32 Pre-Injury Dreams and Ambitions07:18 Mental Health Struggles08:49 Return to Rugby15:35 Bipolar Disorder Journey23:51 Support from Community26:54 Writing The Maniac with No Knees29:53 The Writing Process and Mania30:26 Structuring the Book31:12 Challenges and Introspection31:44 Support and Editing32:20 Understanding the Journey34:00 Mental Health Hospital Experience35:07 Outpatient Therapy36:15 Transition to Coaching37:35 Mental Health in Sports38:52 Stigma in Male Athletes40:35 Support for Players45:06 Personal Growth and Success47:57 Lightning Round54:27 Final Thoughts & Contact Info- Learn more about Tyler → https://www.tylerkania.com/🎧 Listen now on all platforms and watch the full video on YouTube and Spotify.📩 Subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps us keep telling stories that matter.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Roman Fischer, a high-performance coach dedicated to transforming lives through fitness, nutrition, and mindset. Roman shares his personal story—from early struggles with self-confidence and mental health to building a meaningful career coaching others.The conversation explores how fitness became a lifestyle for Roman, what sparked his transformation, and how he now helps others achieve the same. Topics include building long-term habits, the role of nutrition, the mindset behind sustainable change, and practical tips for busy people. Roman also shares insights on training different age groups, debunking common fitness myths, and the benefits of online coaching.This episode offers honest, straightforward, and actionable advice designed to help listeners achieve lasting health improvements through discipline, consistency, and clarity of purpose.Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Roman Fischer00:53 – Roman's Early Fitness Journey03:46 – Transforming Fitness into a Lifestyle26:37 – Building Long-Term Fitness Habits39:51 – Calories In, Calories Out44:13 – Debunking Fitness Myths46:10 – Supplements vs. Whole Foods50:51 – Training Different Age Groups53:17 – Online Coaching vs. Traditional Training56:11 – Daily Exercises for Everyone58:54 – Future Projects and Goals01:00:09 – Final Fitness Wisdom01:01:22 – Lightning Round Q&A01:05:37 – Closing RemarksLearn more and connect with Roman Fischer → Website romanfischerofficial.com👉Social: @romanfischerofficial on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedInIf you enjoy this episode, rate, review, and subscribe to the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast. New episodes every week.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Erich Archer, Emmy-winning TV producer, AI innovator, and creative force behind 1623 Studios, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of sports storytelling and media.Erich shares his remarkable journey — from discovering his love for media as a teen to producing sports and reality TV and pioneering AI-driven content creation. The conversation dives deep into how AI transforms creative workflows, breaks production barriers, and opens new ways to engage sports fans.We explore the real-world opportunities and challenges of using AI, its role in personalizing sports content, and how creators can balance technology with emotional authenticity. Whether you’re a media professional, sports fan, or curious creator, this episode delivers insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:45 Erich Archer’s Early Inspirations02:22 Journey into Sports and Television03:57 Embracing AI in Storytelling06:25 The Impact of AI on Content Creation10:05 AI Tools and Techniques14:39 Challenges and Opportunities in AI-Driven Media26:33 AI in Video Production26:56 Emotional Depth in AI Content28:41 AI Tools for Content Creation33:09 AI in Sports Storytelling38:24 Future of AI in Media45:23 Lightning Round Q&A51:29 Final Thoughts and AdviceWhat You’ll Learn:How AI empowers solo creators to do the work of full production teamsWhy emotional depth still depends on human creativityHow sports teams can leverage AI for fan engagement and new revenueTips for creatives on integrating AI into their work and staying ahead of disruptionLearn more about Erich Archer → Website: cgacreative.comSupport the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, host Sid Bensalah sits down with Brian Hite, a Hollywood stuntman turned performance psychologist, to explore the mindset behind high-stakes environments. With over 30 years of experience in dangerous stunts and high-pressure moments, Brian has translated lessons from the stunt world into tools for building resilience, mental toughness, and focus in sports, military, and corporate settings.Brian delves into the relationship between pressure, stress, and perception, revealing how preparation and mindset can turn fear into confidence. He explains how to manage energy activation levels for optimal performance and why understanding risk is key to decision-making under pressure.From behind-the-scenes stories of death-defying stunts to practical strategies for leaders and athletes, this episode is packed with insights on staying present, overcoming fear, and thriving when everything’s on the line.00:00 – Introduction: From Hollywood stunts to psychology01:00 – Brian’s early career and unique path02:00 – The overlap between psychology and stunt performance03:30 – Building mental resilience in high-stakes settings07:40 – Applying performance psychology across fields17:00 – Defining pressure vs. stress21:00 – The FACT model: Focus, Arousal, Confidence, Tenacity25:00 – Adapting to unpredictable situations31:00 – The illusion of pressure37:00 – Managing energy activation levels43:00 – Preparation as a tool for resilience50:00 – Risk assessment in real life58:00 – Lightning Round: Dangerous stunts, myths, mindset hacks01:06:00 – Final insights and actionable adviceWhether an athlete, a leader, or simply navigating high-pressure situations, this conversation will inspire you to redefine challenge and unlock your mental strength.Learn more about Brian’s work at brianhiteglobal.com.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. Don’t forget to download, subscribe, and leave a review—your support helps us bring more inspiring conversations like this!Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.

Send us Fan MailIn episode 56, host Sid Bensalah interviews Bobby Donohue, founder of Planet Bonehead, an innovative educational platform that uses animation and storytelling to teach kids about climate change and sustainability.Bobby shares his journey from branding executive to climate education advocate, revealing how he leveraged creative content—and even AI—to scale Planet Bonehead into classrooms across the globe. They explore why climate education is missing from most school curricula, how storytelling can empower kids, and the critical role corporate partnerships and green tech play in driving solutions.Throughout the conversation, Bobby offers candid insights on the challenges of aligning profit and purpose, overcoming political and corporate roadblocks, and nurturing optimism in the next generation.Whether you're an educator, parent, sustainability advocate, or entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you with actionable ideas to spark climate literacy and hope in young minds.00:00 – Intro: Meet Bobby Donohue & Planet Bonehead00:50 – Bobby’s transition from branding to climate advocacy03:27 – The role of AI in scaling educational content07:20 – The story behind Planet Bonehead’s name and mission26:25 – Challenges of scaling an educational platform28:54 – Funding strategies: corporate partnerships, schools, investors36:32 – Understanding the needs of schools and teachers38:45 – Structuring climate education with fun, empowerment, and action43:54 – Green tech solutions kids can get excited about49:14 – Why climate education faces resistance—and how to overcome it56:50 – Bobby’s vision for Planet Bonehead’s global future01:00:28 – Lightning round: Get to know Bobby🎧 Tune in to discover how creative storytelling, optimism, and actionable insights can turn kids into climate champions—and how you can support this movement.👉 Visit planetbonehead.com or connect with Bobby on LinkedIn to learn more.Support the show☞ Stay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk!Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations at the intersection of sports, leadership, faith, community, and clean progress. Follow, watch, and share your voice—because it matters.Follow & Engage 🔹 Spotify (Video) → Watch Full Episodes🔹 YouTube → Subscribe & Join the Conversation🔹 Twitter/X → @PreZeroST🔹 Instagram → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 LinkedIn → Connect with the Community🔹 TikTok → @PreZeroSportsTalk🔹 Substack → Get Exclusive UpdatesYour Voice Matters!🎤 Got feedback or a topic idea?We’d love to hear from you → Send your thoughts here💡 Support the Podcast 👉 Donate.