High Performing Leaders in Sport: Recent Episodes
Joshua van Kampen
"High Performing Leaders in Sport" is a dynamic podcast that delves into the world of sports leadership and management. Join us as we sit down with top coaches, executives, and athletes to uncover the strategies and insights that drive success on and off the field. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a leadership aficionado, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the minds behind high-performing teams in the world of sports. Tune in for inspiring stories, valuable lessons, and the winning strategies that make champions.
In this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we sit down with Daniel Dawick, National Facilities and Special Projects Lead at Basketball New Zealand, to explore the intricacies of sports leadership. Daniel shares his unique career journey, from managing yacht races to driving the growth of basketball in New Zealand. We discuss his leadership philosophy, the challenges of expanding sports infrastructure, and the role of data in making strategic decisions. Daniel also offers advice for emerging leaders in sports management, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the business of sports.
In this episode, we’re joined by Stephanie Clarke, a emerging figure in Australian sports management. As the first female Club President of Sydney University Soccer Football Club and the Women and Girls Community Football Lead for NSW/ACT at AFL, Stephanie has played a crucial role in shaping the future of sports in Australia. We discuss her journey from early beginnings to becoming a leader in male-dominated fields, her strategies for driving community engagement and inclusivity, and her views on the evolving landscape of women’s sport. Stephanie also shares valuable advice for up-and-coming leaders in the industry. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of Australia’s most influential sports leaders.
In this episode of the "High Performing Leaders in Sport" podcast, we sit down with Nick Holloway, the Club & Volunteer Manager at Basketball England. Nick's career journey has taken him from Australia to England, where he now plays a key role in shaping the future of basketball in the UK. Join us as we explore his leadership insights, the cultural contrasts between Australian and English sports, and the challenges and opportunities facing basketball in England today. We also dive into the vital role of volunteers, the impact of local clubs on community building, and Nick's vision for the future of the sport. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or an aspiring leader, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration
In this episode, we sit down with Robin Matthew, Head of Broadcast and Commercial Development at New Zealand Cricket, to explore his fascinating career journey across the sports and media industries. From his early days at JWT India working with global brands to his influential roles at STAR Sports and ESPN STAR Sports, Robin shares how these experiences shaped his approach to broadcasting and strategic partnerships. We’ll delve into the challenges and opportunities he’s encountered at New Zealand Cricket, the innovations transforming sports broadcasting, and his vision for the future. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or an aspiring leader in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.
In this episode of "High Performing Leaders in Sport", we sit down with Brett Patten, CEO of Perth Heat, to discuss his illustrious career journey, from his early days to his current role. Brett shares his strategies for cultivating leadership, building high-performing cultures, achieving revenue growth, and establishing international partnerships. We dive into the innovative initiatives Perth Heat has implemented to enhance the fan experience and foster community engagement. Brett also provides valuable insights on navigating business challenges and maintaining productivity and efficiency. Tune in for an engaging discussion with one of the most influential leaders in the sports industry today.
In this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we’re honoured to speak with Troy de Haas, Managing Director Asia-Pacific at Turnkey ZRG. Troy shares his fascinating journey from being an elite athlete to leading a major executive search firm. Discover the core values that drive his leadership, the challenges he’s overcome, and how Turnkey ZRG leverages data to excel in the competitive world of sports and entertainment. We also discuss emerging trends in the industry, the balancing act of multiple high-profile roles, and Troy’s personal insights on motivation and legacy. Tune in for a deep dive into a career defined by perseverance, innovation, and leadership.
In this episode of the High Performing Leaders in Sport Podcast, we sit down with Mark Winnett, the dynamic CEO of Willetton Basketball Association. Mark's impressive career journey from playing football at WAFL and State level to leading a major sports organisation is filled with inspiration and valuable lessons.
Mark shares his experiences managing football operations at East Perth Football Club, including the significant alignment with the West Coast Eagles. As the CEO of Willetton Basketball Association, he oversees a facility that welcomes over 30,000 visitors weekly and manages a team of 1,200 volunteers. We delve into the $11 million redevelopment of the facility, the transition from SBL to NBL1, and Mark's strategies for driving sponsorship revenue.
Join us as we explore Mark's leadership approach, his commitment to community engagement, and his vision for the future of Willetton Basketball Association. Whether you're an aspiring sports administrator or a seasoned professional, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration.
Tune in now and discover the secrets to Mark Winnett's success in sports administration!
In this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we interview Caitlin Spencer, True Sport - Mental Health & Wellbeing Project Lead at SportWest. Caitlin shares her journey from UWA, through a non-linear path to SportWest, and the impact of True Sport on mental health and wellbeing. Join us as we explore Caitlin's vision for future initiatives, the leaders who have guided her through the highs and lows, and the rewarding aspects of promoting mental health through sports. Tune in for an inspiring conversation and valuable insights into creating an inclusive and supportive sports community.
In this episode, we sit down with Casey Grice, Executive General Manager, Community & Foundation at the Adelaide Football Club. Casey's journey from a beach volleyball athlete to a key leader in sports management is nothing short of inspiring. We delve into his leadership philosophy, strategic planning, and the innovative programs she champions to build healthy, well-connected communities. Casey shares insights into the power of sport in making a community impact, the importance of self-awareness, and how resilience can support today's youth in overcoming mental health challenges. Join us as we explore the intersection of sports, leadership, and community development.
In this episode of 'High Performing Leaders in Sport,' we sit down with Beth Blackman, the Community Relations & Marketing Coordinator for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. Beth shares her inspiring journey into the world of sports, starting from her education at The George Washington University to her diverse roles in various sports organizations. Discover how her background in graphic design enhances NASCAR's marketing efforts and learn about her strategies for community engagement. Beth also talks about the importance of fan feedback and how it shapes successful events. Join us for an insightful conversation about leadership, creativity, and making a difference in the community through sports.
In this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we sit down with Mitchell Collins, the General Manager Operations at Rowing Australia. With a career spanning government and sporting organizations, Mitchell shares his journey, insights, and strategies for success in sports management. From leading strategic initiatives to nurturing talent and envisioning the future of rowing in Australia, Mitchell's experience offers invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders in the sports industry.
Tune in as we explore the intersection of leadership, innovation, and personal development with Mitchell Collins on High Performing Leaders in Sport.
In this episode of High Performing Sport, we sit down with Ceran Nilsen, a trailblazer in athlete wellbeing and development. As an Elite Athlete Wellbeing, Career, and Education Coach at Brisbane Broncos and Founder of Smart Sports Consultants, Ceran shares insights gathered from years of guiding athletes towards their full potential. From tackling mental health concerns to navigating the delicate balance between sports and education, Ceran's expertise shines through. Join us as we uncover the strategies and stories driving positive change in the dynamic world of professional and Olympic sports.
In this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we sit down with James Sansalone, the General Manager of Operations at East Perth Football Club. With a career spanning marketing, operations, and strategic planning, James offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise in sports management. Join us as we explore James's journey from marketing roles to his current leadership position, his guiding principles in managing operations and marketing within a football club, and his strategies for enhancing community engagement and commercial viability. From successful sponsorship activations to data-driven decision-making, James shares valuable insights into the dynamic world of sports management. Tune in to gain inspiration and practical advice from one of the industry's top leaders.
In this captivating episode of 'High Performing Leaders in Sport,' we delve into the remarkable journey of Jason Russell-Jones, Head of Community Legacy Projects at Rugby Australia. Join us as we uncover the extraordinary career trajectory of Jason, a visionary leader whose passion for sports and strategic acumen have left an indelible mark on the world of sports management. From his early days in grassroots cricket development to his pivotal roles at esteemed organizations like the England & Wales Cricket Board and the Australian Sports Commission, Jason's journey is a testament to the transformative power of leadership. Through insightful discussions and inspiring anecdotes, we explore Jason's innovative approaches to community engagement, his unwavering commitment to driving positive change, and the enduring legacy he is building through his impactful projects. Tune in as we unravel the secrets behind Jason's success and gain invaluable insights from one of the foremost leaders in sports management today.
In our newest episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we're thrilled to welcome Renee Cohen, the General Manager of Community and Game Development at the Gold Coast Titans. With over fifteen years of experience in Rugby League, Renee brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role, overseeing a range of initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Join us as we explore Renee's journey, from her early days with the Australian Rugby League to her pivotal role in leading the Gold Coast Titans' award-winning community department. Discover how she leverages the power of Rugby League to foster inclusivity, promote health and well-being, and drive positive social change in the Gold Coast region. Listen now to gain valuable insights into Renee's leadership strategies, her approach to building effective community engagement initiatives, and the metrics she uses to measure the success and impact of her programs. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation with Renee Cohen, General Manager of Community and Game Development at the Gold Coast Titans. Listen today!
Join us on "High Performing Leaders in Sport" as we sit down with Tamatha Harding, an esteemed executive with over two decades of experience in sports management and consultancy roles. As Interim CEO at Tennis Victoria and Director of Women Sport Australia, Tamatha has dedicated her career to promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports. In this episode, we explore Tamatha's insights on strategic planning, governance, and her journey of balancing career success with motherhood. Tune in as we uncover the strategies and stories behind high-performing leadership in sports with Tamatha Harding.
🎙️ Get ready for an inspiring deep dive into the world of sports leadership! 🌟 Join us on "High Performing Leaders in Sport" as we sit down with Robert Coombes, a visionary leader with over 3 decades at Nike Inc. From revolutionising Nike Football to his diehard passion for Arsenal FC, Bob's journey is a testament to resilience and innovation. Don't miss out on his tales from crafting rugby & cricket footwear down under to managing a surf brand in SoCal. Tune in for insights from a global GM who's left an indelible mark on the sports industry!
In today's episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Trish Crews, the General Manager Communities at Netball NSW. Trish brings a wealth of experience from her diverse background, having made significant contributions to various sporting organizations such as the Sydney Kings, Paralympics Australia, and the Layne Beachley Foundation, just to name a few.
With a career that's seen her intern at the Orlando Magic and lead community initiatives at the Parramatta Eels in the NRL, Trish's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Join us as we explore the pivotal moments that shaped her career, her innovative approaches to community engagement in sports, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.
So grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired as we uncover the intersection of sports, leadership, and community impact with Trish Crews.
Welcome to "The Sponsorship Game," where we delve into the captivating world where sports and business intersect. In this episode, host Josh van Kampen invites you to join us as we explore the strategies, successes, and challenges defining sports sponsorship.
From the emblematic logos adorning jerseys to the towering banners in stadiums, sponsorship fuels our favourite teams and forges connections between brands and fans. But what stories lie behind these deals?
In this instalment, we're privileged to host Robert Honan, the visionary founder of The Community and Club Collective, a trailblazer in sports sponsorship. Robert shares his expertise, insights, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the future of brand engagement with sports communities.
Join us as we dissect successful campaigns, uncover the latest trends, and reveal the secrets to forging enduring partnerships. Whether you're a fervent sports enthusiast, a marketing aficionado, or simply curious about the inner workings of the sports world, "The Sponsorship Game" promises to inform, inspire, and entertain.
Tune in and discover the thrilling intersection of sports and sponsorship on High Performing Leaders in Sport.
In this episode, we're honoured to chat with Addy Wetzler, the CEO of East Fremantle Football Club. Beyond the victories on the field, Addy's leadership has brought a genuine sense of community and passion to the club. Join us as we delve into Addy's journey, exploring his love for the sport and the unique approach that sets East Fremantle apart. It's more than just a team – it's a shared experience and a testament to Addy's commitment to fostering growth and camaraderie. Tune in for an insightful conversation with Addy Wetzler on High Performing Leaders in Sport..
🎙️ Don't miss our latest episode! Join us as we sit down with Sammie Phillips, the Head of Elite Coaching & General Manager at England Touch, a true luminary in the realm of touch sports. Dive into her journey, uncovering her leadership and coaching philosophies, unique strategies for touch sports, and the delicate balance between athlete development and team management. Gain exclusive insights into the challenges of sports management, the role of adaptability, and integrating cutting-edge technology into coaching methodologies. Plus, discover Sammie's inspirations, aspirations for touch rugby in 2024, and invaluable advice for emerging leaders. Tune in for a powerhouse of wisdom and expertise in sports leadership! 🏉✨ #SportsLeadership #CoachingExcellence #EliteSports
Join us on this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport as we delve into the world of golf leadership with a remarkable guest, Gary Thomas, CEO of Golf WA. Gary brings his extensive experience and unique insights into what it takes to lead and excel in the dynamic realm of golf administration.
In this engaging conversation, we uncover the strategies and mindset behind fostering a thriving golf community. Gary shares compelling anecdotes and lessons learned throughout his journey, offering valuable perspectives on effective leadership, fostering talent, and driving innovation within the sport.
Tune in as we explore the blend of passion, strategy, and vision that fuels Gary Thomas's approach to shaping the future of golf in Western Australia and beyond. If you're an aspiring leader in sports or a passionate golfer seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen!
Listen as Gary Thomas opens up about the challenges and triumphs of steering Golf WA toward greater heights, and gain actionable insights from a true high-performing leader in the world of sports.
Dive into the world of high-performance leadership in sports with our latest episode featuring Simon Taylor, the exceptional CEO of Rugby WA. Join host Josh van Kampen, as we uncover the transformative journey of a visionary leader shaping the game of rugby. Simon's strategic brilliance and unwavering dedication have not only elevated Rugby WA but have set a new standard for leadership in athletics.
Discover the insights, anecdotes, and wisdom from a trailblazer who redefines excellence, teamwork, and innovation within the realm of sports. Tune in for an enlightening conversation packed with invaluable lessons and experiences that have shaped Simon's unparalleled leadership philosophy.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the secrets behind high-performance leadership in sports with the remarkable Simon Taylor. Listen now to gain exclusive access to the mind of a visionary leader driving change and excellence in the world of rugby.
"From the Court to the Community: Emma Clarke's Inspiring Journey"
Join us on this week's episode as we sit down with the remarkable Emma Clarke, a professional basketball player for the Sydney Flames and a dedicated What Ability Support Worker & Ambassador. Emma's story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on and off the court.
Emma's basketball journey is nothing short of inspiring. She's not only a standout athlete for the Sydney Flames but also a beacon of hope for young aspiring basketball players. In this podcast, Emma shares her experiences, the challenges she's overcome, and the dedication it takes to excel in a highly competitive sport.
Beyond her achievements in the basketball world, Emma is also a What Ability Support Worker & Ambassador. She has dedicated her life to supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting a more inclusive society. Emma's passion for this cause shines through as she discusses the importance of breaking down barriers and advocating for those who need a voice.
Throughout this episode, you'll hear about Emma's incredible journey, the lessons she's learned, and her vision for a more inclusive future. Her story is a testament to the power of sports, resilience, and the difference one person can make in the lives of others. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation with Emma Clarke!
Championing Sustainable Sports: A Conversation with the Founder of Sustainable Sport Australia.
In this inspiring episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we sit down with the visionary founder of Sustainable Sport Australia to explore the incredible journey of merging passion for sports and environmental, social, and governance stewardship. Our guest, John Gardner, takes us behind the scenes of their mission to transform the world of sports, making it a beacon of sustainability and ESG-consciousness.
Join us as we dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of pioneering an organisation dedicated to ESG practices within the sports industry. Discover how Sustainable Sport Australia is leading the charge of initiatives that are making a profound impact on our environment.
From the role of technology to organisations embracing sustainability practices, this conversation will unveil the power of sports to inspire change and create a more sustainable future. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an ESG advocate, or simply curious about the intersection of sports and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in to hear John Gardner's insights, stories, and vision for a world where sports and sustainability go hand in hand. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion that highlights the potential for a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable sporting world.
Step into the huddle and join us on an exciting journey through the world of American football, Down Under! In this episode, we sit down with Gridiron Australia CEO, Wade Kelly, to explore the growth, passion, and excitement of gridiron football in Australia.
Wade Kelly is at the helm of Gridiron Australia, the governing body for the sport in the country. He's a true gridiron enthusiast with a remarkable background in sport. Join us as we delve into his journey, the challenges and triumphs of managing an evolving sports organisation, and how gridiron is carving its own niche in the Australian sporting landscape.
Tune in and gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the game-changing strides Gridiron Australia is making as it drives the sport to new heights. Don't miss this opportunity to huddle up with one of the key figures in Australian gridiron, Wade Kelly!
Athletes for Hope was founded in 2006 by a group of elite athletes who all share a common bond – a deep commitment to helping others. These Founders included Muhammad Ali, Mia Hamm, Andre Agassi, and Alonzo Mourning, among others.
AFH is a non-profit that aims to educate, encourage, and assist athletes in their efforts to engage with community and charitable causes, to increase public awareness of and support those efforts, and to inspire others to do the same.
So why do we need athletes to create change?
Suzanne Potts, Chief Wellbeing Officer, and Director, Athletes for Hope University shares how the influence and visibility of an athlete can create change, walk through the challenges organisations face over time, learn her philosophy on risk-taking, what’s essential in sports leadership, dive into the future of sports philanthropy, and discuss the most powerful ways to lead in sports.
Sometimes we need just one chance, especially in the highly competitive sports industry, it's important to seize opportunities when they arise and make the most of them.
On this episode of High Performing Leaders in Sport, we feature, Abid Imam Volunteers & Workforce Manager - Perth/Boorloo at FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™, and Club Engagement Lead of Football West.
We examine his career journey, how volunteers play a crucial role in sport, having a significant impact on various aspects of our communities, the legacy of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and how the next 5-10 years look for the future of sport.
Feel free to connect with Abid via abidimam.com or @freodejaneiro
Do Sports have the ability to build strong communities?
Our featured high-performing leader is Annette Hogan, Manager of Community Relations at the Connecticut Sun. Annette shares her journey from a small town in upstate New York, to managing the growth of community programs at the Connecticut Sun. Annette will reveal how internships supported her personal and professional growth, current challenges, her focus on enhancing WNBA players’ ability to amplify and impact personal causes within the community, and how sport can build strong communities.
This episode features Ryan Lenegan, Chief Executive Officer at Perth Basketball Association, one of the top CEO’s in West Australian Sport. Ryan discusses his sporting experience and passion for fostering communities, helped support his growth into a CEO at one of the largest basketball clubs in WA.
Discover how Ryan and the Perth Basketball Association are using basketball as a vehicle to impact their local community, his open-mindedness to growth and collaboration, the challenges PBA are trying to overcome, and his thoughts on the future of basketball (and his) in Western Australia.
Sports philanthropy is devoted to creating corporate social responsibility by using sports for the common good. But Sports Philanthropy in Australia needs our attention!
How does sports philanthropy gain the attention, and trust of the Australian public?
The ‘Green and Gold Decade’ culminating in the Olympic and Paralympic Games being held, in Brisbane in 2032 creates a once in a generation opportunity to grow philanthropic giving to sport.
On this episode, we hold a roundtable discussion, diving into Philanthropic Opportunities in Australian Sport with Trish Crews (General Manager Communities,
Netball NSW), Nathan Cooke (Director of Philanthropy at Impact Philanthropy), and Darren Anderson (Founder, Forward Pivot).
We discuss how sport can be a vehicle to drive social change. Identify How to develop a fundraising strategy. Discuss the sports funding narrative. The power of elite athletes; and the opportunities the 11 billion-dollar philanthropic market in Australia presents for sport.
“Pressure is a privilege” was said often by tennis legend Billie Jean King and has wisdom beyond its simple premise.
This simple premise is at the forefront of our next guests’ success, Kaitlin Mason.
Learn how the Head of Marketing Media and Communications at Baseball Australia, Team Australia and the Australian Baseball League (ABL), who’s career started at Fox Sports, who’s tenacity and hard work, developed the skills to grow in sports administration, develop leadership skills, life lessons along the way, resulting in the success of Team Australia’s efforts at the World Baseball Classic.
Kaitlin and Baseball Australia are ready to take on that success, and help grow Australia’s diamond sports.
What makes a high performer, and how do you become one?
Research shows the top 5 key attributes that make a high performer are problem-solving, drive, self-direction, strategic thinking, and initiative.
Todays guest Josh Bowler, Head of Broadcast Operations and Scheduling at AFL has every one of these key attributes.
Josh will share insights into his role at the AFL, his career journey, his drive to continually perform through consistent effort, and what it means to be a leader in todays environment.
No matter what you do in life, the key to achieving success and happiness is passion.
As Yale's new Associate Director of Athletics for Development. Eric Silakowski’s success can be drilled down into one thing, passion for college athletics.
Learn how Eric’s journey from a Division 3 baseball player, has led him to becoming one of the highest performing leaders in college athletics. Discover what his first 90 days in the sports industry looked like. His journey as a leader. The importance of flexibility. And what the biggest challenge facing him, and his team, the next 12 months at Yale.
A trailblazer is a person who blazes a trail for others to follow through unsettled country or wilderness.
This episode features Lauren Gandini. Co-founder and Managing Director of Stella Athlete Management - an Australian-based female-focused, and female-led athlete management agency for elite and emerging female athletes.
Learn how Lauren is blazing a trail for her athletes through hard work, collaboration, and authenticity. We discuss the growth and future of women's sports, her day-to-day role as an agent, the biggest learnings to date, and the challenges facing her and her team in the coming 12 months.
The High Performing Leaders in Sport podcast acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we live and work, the Whadjuk Nyoongar people. We pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.
Episode 1 features Eugene Esaki, Retired Nike Product Creation, Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations. Eugene shares his 26-year career at Nike, how Nike positioned products in North and South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific, the challenges building a high performing team, and his favourite Michael Jordan and Ronaldo stories.
Hi, I’m Josh van Kampen, Founder of the Leadership in Sport podcast.
In 2023 I’m bringing you a new podcast, High Performing Leader in Sport.
I’ll be interviewing leaders from across the globe, learning what it takes to become a leader in the sports industry.
For now, I’ll take you back to one my favourite interviews, Perth Heat CEO, Steven Nelkovski.
Steven Nelkovski BIO
"Started doing work experience for community newspaper, writing articles on local soccer club. That opened to the door to do more work experience with Peter Vlahos at 6NR which opened more doors to work experience at Channel 7 while I was at Uni. 12 years with Channel seven whilst also doing radio commentary with 882 6PR. I moved to Sydney with Fox Sports in 2009, returning in 2010 to take a role with Perth Glory in media / marketing. It’s a role that fuelled my ambition to become a CEO and after 3.5 years with the Glory I thought I needed to move away from Sports to broaden my business skill set. After 3 years in sales and 1 year in management I have now landed at the Perth Heat since Sept 2018 and loving my life."