Pre-Zero Sports Talk
Pre-Zero Sports Talk
Sid Bensalah
Welcome to Pre-Zero Sports Talk, the podcast that delves into the captivating convergence of Sports, Events, Innovation, and Sustainability. Our host, Sid Bensalah, is a seasoned sports industry professional with over two decades of experience. His mission is to unearth pathways for decarbonizing the sector, paving the way for a more sustainable future.This podcast was born out of frustration and disillusionment within the sports industry, realizing that urgent act is needed on climate change. Join us as we dive deep into the latest and most compelling topics in sports with no bias or restrictions. So, get ready for an honest and unfiltered journey that will leave you informed, entertained, and wanting more.
Strawberry Hotels - Pioneering Sustainability in the Hospitality Landscape.
In this final episode#07 of Season #01 of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk, our host, Sid Bensalah, discussed the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry with special guests Mari Sandrop, the Sustainability Analyst and Maria Anderson, the Sales Director of Meetings representing Strawberry Hotels. The episode was recorded from a high-end Podcast Studio at Clarion Hotel Sign, one of Strawberry's 232 exquisite properties. Designed by the acclaimed, well-known Swedish architect Gert Wingårdh.Strawberry's sustainability motto is simple yet profound: 'WeCare'. It's a testament to their dedication to sustainability that goes beyond lip service.  The conversation delved into visionary strategies, community engagement, and the transformative Strawberry Sustainability Program, examining its integration across diverse hotel operations and into sales and sports initiatives.The episode explores Strawberry Hotels' active engagement with local communities, collaborations with partners like Norwegian Airlines and UNICEF, and sustainability initiatives such as the Green Conference and the Lonely Christmas Tree. The conversation also touches upon the changing tourism landscape, with a notable shift towards the Nordic region driven by sustainability considerations and climate concerns.As the conversation concluded, Sid thanked Mari and Maria for their exceptional insights and summarised critical takeaways. The first season wraps up with anticipation for more insightful discussions on sustainability and its intersection with the sports industry in the upcoming Season#02 in 2024.If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love your support. Download, drop us a comment and share your ideas for future topics or guests you want to hear from. Hit subscribe and tune in on your favourite podcast platform so you never miss our upcoming interviews and discussions in season two in a few weeks in 2024. Your engagement fuels our passion for delivering quality content. Let's embark on this insightful journey together!☞ Follow the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show and our host Sid Bensalah on all social platforms:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PreZeroSTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prezerosportstalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-bensalah/
Dec 19, 2023
39 min
From Passion to Purpose: Tripulse's Path to Fitness, Sustainability, and Community.
Welcome to another captivating episode of "Pre-Zero Sports Talk," the podcast that explores the fascinating intersection of Sports, Events, Innovation, and Sustainability. In this episode, we have the incredible privilege of delving into the inspiring journey of Tripulse. This revolutionary activewe ar brand seamlessly integrates Fitness, Sustainability, and Community.Join our host, Sid Bensalah, as he sits down with the visionary founder and CEO of Tripulse, Franziska Mesche. With a background in management consulting and B2B sales within the tech industry, Franziska's expertise has led her to create Tripulse. This brand offers sustainable activewear and serves as a beacon for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs seeking to embed sustainability into their DNA.This episode reveals the personal narrative behind Franziska's foray into sustainable fashion. Her unwavering commitment to fitness and sustainability ignited the inception of Tripulse, and her journey inspires women aspiring to enter the sustainable fashion space.Franziska shares her vision of empowering individuals to lead healthy, impactful lives while fostering a robust global community that embraces diversity and positive change. Drawing inspiration from trailblazers like Sarah Blakely, the founder of Spanx and Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, Franziska's story epitomizes the role of women in entrepreneurship.As sustainability takes centre stage in our world, Tripulse embraces a holistic approach that spans the entire lifecycle of its products, supply chain, and business operations. Ethical and social practices are seamlessly integrated, ensuring transparency at every step.Delve into Tripulse's pioneering innovations in sustainable activewear, including their groundbreaking Eucalyptus Fiber Innovation. Franziska sheds light on the environmental impact of eucalyptus fibre and how Tripulse ensures sustainability and traceability in its production.The episode further explores Franziska's long-term goals for Tripulse—aiming to influence the sports industry toward sustainability and inspire positive change in consumers' mindsets and behaviours regarding activewear choices.Join us for an engaging and empowering conversation encouraging you to make a difference in your lifestyle and contribute to a sustainable future. Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, or fashion enthusiast, this episode will inspire you to embrace sustainability in your daily choices.Tune in to "Pre-Zero Sports Talk" and embark on this journey with Franziska Mesche and Tripulse. Let's create a world where passion meets purpose, and sustainability drives meaningful change.☞ Follow the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show and our host Sid Bensalah on all social platforms:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PreZeroSTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prezerosportstalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-bensalah/
Aug 20, 2023
46 min
Driving Sustainable Change in Hockey: Exploring FIH's Commitment to a Greener Future.
Welcome to "Pre-Zero Sports Talk," where we dive deep into the intersection of sports, innovation, and sustainability. In this groundbreaking episode, we are privileged to engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Jon Wyatt, the Sport & Sustainability Director of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). Join us for our first-ever interview with an international sporting governing body as we uncover FIH's remarkable sustainability journey.In this enlightening discussion, Jon shares his insights into FIH's sustainability strategy, offering a comprehensive understanding of their challenges and initiatives to reduce hockey's environmental footprint. Discover how FIH is revolutionising the world of artificial turf, making it more eco-friendly while maintaining high-performance standards. Jon explains their use of renewable materials, including plastic derived from sugar cane, and their dedication to reducing water usage.Throughout the episode, we explore the intricacies of measuring the carbon footprint within teams and throughout the season. Jon provides valuable insights into the complexities and accessibility of this process, shedding light on its significance for driving sustainable change in hockey.As we delve into the topic, Jon explains the safety considerations surrounding plastic grass turf and the steps FIH has taken to address potential risks associated with its manufacturing. Gain a deeper understanding of the measures in place to ensure the well-being of players and the environment.Join us as we highlight the numerous benefits of embracing sustainability for athletes and teams. Jon shares inspiring examples of initiatives that foster sustainable behaviours on and off the field, empowering athletes to become passionate sustainability ambassadors within their communities.We also explore FIH's governance role in driving sustainable change and its collaborations with international sporting bodies and stakeholders. Discover the importance of sustainable policies, regulations, and guidelines in securing the long-term sustainability of hockey.Prepare to be inspired as we unveil FIH's remarkable journey towards a greener future in hockey. Throughout this episode, Jon's expertise and dedication shine, providing a unique perspective on how FIH is making a measurable impact on reducing hockey's environmental footprint.Join us on this captivating exploration of FIH's sustainability endeavours and discover how they shape this beloved sport's sustainable landscape. It's time to witness the strategies, achievements, and ongoing efforts driving sustainable change in hockey.☞ Follow the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show and our host Sid Bensalah on all social platforms:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PreZeroSTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prezerosportstalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-bensalah/
Jul 23, 2023
40 min
The Impact of Climate Change on Sports and Athlete Activism for Sustainability.
Prepare for an extraordinary episode filled with passion, resilience, and triumph as we welcome our exceptional guest, Philippe Marquis, an Olympic athlete and coach. Philippe's story is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of excellence.Philippe is a two-time Canadian Olympian (2014, 2018) in freestyle/mogul skiing, with an impressive career spanning over twelve years on the Canadian team. As our first-ever Olympic athlete and coach on our Podcast, Philippe's journey from his early aspirations as a young skier to becoming an Olympic athlete has been nothing short of remarkable.Despite facing numerous challenges, including multiple injuries, Philippe's exceptional talent and determination have propelled him to heights. Alongside his athletic pursuits, he has also developed a keen interest in the impact of climate change on sports, particularly in the mountains he calls home.This newfound passion led Philippe to join athlete advocacy groups and actively participate in organisations such as Protect Our Winters Canada and EcoAthletes, where he works to raise awareness and promote sustainability in sports. Additionally, Philippe is a Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission member, further emphasising his dedication to making a positive impact on and off the slopes.Throughout our conversation, we explored the profound impact of climate change on the world of sports and the influential role of athlete activism in driving sustainability.Philippe shared his insights on the practical challenges athletes face in the wake of climate change and the inspiring initiatives athletes undertake to raise awareness and enact positive change. We discussed the crucial role of fans in boosting sustainable practices within the sports industry and the challenges and opportunities faced by athletes and teams in addressing the environmental impact and navigating governing restrictions.Moreover, Philippe highlighted the involvement of fossil fuel companies in the sports industry. He emphasised the potential for a more sustainable future. He expressed his admiration for Protect Our Winters, an organisation he is a part of, which advocates for sustainability at the government and corporate levels. Philippe underscored the power of passionate individuals coming together to protect the environment and secure the future of sports.As we concluded the episode, one thing became clear—the profound impact of climate change on sports and the indispensable role of athlete activism in driving sustainability. Athletes, coaches, fans, and sports organisations are crucial in promoting sustainable practices and addressing environmental challenges.Join us for this enlightening episode of The Pre-Zero Sports Talk as we delve into the impact of climate change on sports and the influential role of athlete activism. Let Philippe's story inspire you to take action and work together towards a world where sports and sustainability go hand in hand.☞ Follow the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show and our host Sid Bensalah on all social platforms:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PreZeroSTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prezerosportstalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-bensalah/
Jun 1, 2023
44 min
From Waste to Wear: The Story of REFLO's Sustainable Activewear.
In today's episode of Pre-Zero Sports Talk. We spoke with Rory MacFadyen, Co-founder of REFLO sustainable activewear. We covered much ground, from how REFLO got started to the production process, his explanation of REFLO’s good Greenwashing, their partnership with Eden Reforestation Project, the benefits of choosing sustainable activewear, and tips for leading a more Eco-Conscious lifestyle. This episode will inspire you to think more deeply about your clothing choices and consider making more sustainable options in your wardrobe. ☞ Follow the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show and our host Sid Bensalah on all social platforms:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PreZeroSTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prezerosportstalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-bensalah/
May 14, 2023
46 min