In today's episode, James speaks to Graeme Eaglesham, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Future Kids. Graeme is a former professional soccer player, coach, and youth trainer who has held positions such as Sports Education Manager at Liverpool International Academy and assistant coach at Bellevue University. Additionally, he is an athlete for Gymshark, one of the world's largest fitness apparel companies.   Through Future Kids, a non-profit organization based in Omaha, Nebraska, they transform generosity from affluent neighborhoods into providing a variety of sports programs (soccer, tennis, and fitness after-school programs) and camps. Each program is tailored with a unique blend of skills, fitness, and character-building activities for underserved youths.   Tune in as James and Graeme speak about:  - Graeme’s journey from street sports to the heights of professional football and now visionary business leadership - His thought process upon realizing the conclusion of his football career - The impact of the pay-to-play model on game adoption - Insights into running a business on the flip side of the pay-to-play narrative - How they are leveling the playing field for kids in underserved communities and the remarkable programs they offer - What he's anticipating at the ongoing soccer coaches’ convention … and so much more! Check out Future Kids: Website: https://futurekids.leagueapps.com/  X: https://x.com/Future_Kids1?s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/future.kidz/    Connect with Graeme: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graeme-eaglesham-    Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk  Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/   

In today's episode, James speaks to Paul Lawrence, the CEO at Challenger Sports and Teamwear. Paul is also a sports instructor and women's head coach, having made significant contributions to teams like Indiana State, Florida Southern College, and Knox College.   With the goal of increasing the number of soccer campers while positively impacting children's lives through soccer, Challenger Sports was established in 1985. Over the years, they have become the most sought-after soccer camp in the United States, having served hundreds of thousands of soccer players. In addition to soccer camps, tournaments, holiday camps, clinics, and tours, they also produce and provide sports apparel through their offspring company, Challenger Teamwear.   In summary, James and Lawrence discuss: - A nostalgic journey into the culture and functionality of British soccer camps in the 1980s - The history and aspirations behind the founding of Challenger Sports - Lawrence's journey from sports coach to founding the most popular soccer camp in the USA - Insights into the growth of Challenger Sports over the years - Current initiatives and innovations within the camp - Strategies for rebuilding and rebounding from the impacts of COVID-19 on their activities - The research model used to equip young athletes - Perspectives on leveling the playing field for less advantaged athletes to reach the pinnacle of their sporting careers … and much more!   Check out Challenger Sports: Website: http://www.challengersports.com http://www.challengerteamwear.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/challenger-sports    Connect with Lawrence:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/profile/in/paul-lawrence-    Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk   Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/     

In today's episode, James speaks with Niall Quinn, an Irish former professional footballer who played top-flight football for Arsenal, Manchester City, and Sunderland. With 92 caps, Niall stands as Ireland's second-highest goalscorer of all time. He has also served as a football manager, sports television pundit at Sky Sports for over a decade, and as an interim Deputy CEO of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).   With many accomplishments to his name, he is also the founder and president of Team Taca, a private podcast that collaborates with youth soccer clubs to produce world-class private and localized club podcasts, offering content that educates, inspires, and empowers the next generation of youth athletes. Niall and James dissect the pay-to-play model dominating U.S. soccer landscapes, scrutinizing its impact on the sport's evolution while emphasizing how mindful communication through podcasting can greatly influence the mental health and overall well-being of young athletes.   In a nutshell, they speak about: - The dynamics of the modern business side of sports - The challenging pattern he observed in clubs and his strategy to alleviate tension with fee-paying parents - How they implement their model to serve both children and their parents - Insights on how to handle situations where your child's performance may not have shined brightly - Notable professional footballers who emerged from their youth teams - The importance of instilling work ethics in young players - How they aim to inspire, empower, educate, and cultivate good habits in youth athletes for only 50 cents per podcast per kid …and so much more!    Check out Team Taca: Website: https://www.teamtaca.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-taca/  Instagram: www.instagram.com/teamtacapod/    Connect with Niall: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niall-quinn-team-taca/   Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk  Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/   

In today's episode, James invites back previous guests for an insightful panel discussion, of three business titans from both sides of the Mergers and acquisitions process. Craig Brennan, the founder, and CEO of The Little Sports Group is building a business and growing through acquisition; Dean Horidge, the former founder of Fit for Sports and is now CEO and founder of Thinkably and Chris Irwin, the founder of Ed Start Group and current CCO at Salford Red Devils.    Listen in as the quad panel unravels valuable insights delving deep from their experience and positions in business growth and M& A business path, setting you up for a fruitful M & A process that will enable you to make the impact you aim for and sustain it.   In a nutshell, the quad speaks about: Their approach and experience in mergers and acquisitions, M&A transactions Organic growth vs growth by acquisition, detailed benefits and challenges that come with each Their thoughts and experiences on the process of acquisition ( the nitty gritty of valuation, negotiation, trade action) etcetera The 5 main signals to look out for while doing your due diligence for potential acquisitions How to navigate the transition cultural, value, and proposition dynamics from the acquisition side for smooth transactions Positive possibilities in the sector some 3 - 5 years down the road Nuggets on maintaining funding sustainability; a roadmap on how to go about your reliance on revenue streams … and so much more!    Connect with our guests: Linkedln: Chris Irwin https://uk.linkedin.com/in/chris-irwin-74150a31  Dean Horridge: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanhorridge1/  Craig Brennan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigbrennanlsc/    Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk   Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/  

In today’s episode, James engages with Andrew Busby, the CEO of Kings Active Foundation, an organisation that has been driving sustained change in sports and activity for children across the country. Assuming the role of CEO in 2023, he has spent two decades in commercial business development before joining the Kings Active team, to create partnerships for the benefit of children globally. Going back to 1991, The Kings Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation, was established with a mission at its core: to utilise Sport and Activity to enhance the lives of thousands of children annually in the UK and globally. Over the years, they have positively impacted over 3 million children and generated more than 20,000 active jobs worldwide, all while remaining committed to their vision of getting children active, having fun, and learning together. In a nutshell, James and Andrew speak about: The transition from a passion for Art & Design to entering the parking sector. The significance of distinguishing between one's strengths and passions. Insights into the role of universities and alternative paths in the broader context of achieving success. The narrative behind the establishment of Kings Active Foundation. The strategic changes to their business model because of COVID-19 and his thoughts on the pros and cons of this transformation. The 3 to 5-year vision of the organisation and their aspirations within that vision. The compelling spirit and distinctive features of Kings, particularly in how they welcome individuals back into their families. Andrew's strategies for maintaining a high level of productivity and performance and so much more! Check out Kings Active Foundation: Website: http://www.kingsfoundation.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-kings-foundation-kings-camps Connect with Andrew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewbusby01 Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/

In today's episode, James speaks to Rebecca Hopkins, the founder, and CEO of The STA Group, a sports tech entrepreneur, award-winning ENS Sports PR, and co-founder of Women's Sports Week. At a time when everybody seemed oblivious to the tech revolution in the sports sector, Rebecca, to shine a spotlight on this unheralded contribution, launched the now leading global tech-led innovation in sports, The STA Group.   The STA Group (Sports Technology Awards Group), is a constellation of companies which includes ENS, the UK’s longest-standing independent sports PR agency, and The Sports Technology Awards, which leads in the global celebration of tech-led innovation in sport. They also have a new podcast Tech Chairs Podcast that explores technology's relationship with sports by inviting tech experts, champion athletes, and elite coaches to get their insider insights.   In a nutshell, James and Rebecca speak about: Rebecca's earliest sporting memories and her journey to sports tech Her first break into the world of sports that was  formerly a male-dominated sphere The gap she went about filling on tech recognition in the sporting industry The earliest stages of their launch and the biggest success story they've highlighted so far Greatest challenges they faced in their young stages and how they're now the leaders in their sphere Insights she'd learned throughout her entrepreneurial journey and interaction with high-achieving business people Importance of working towards being a master of one and getting into the guts of what you do …and so much more!   Check out The STA Group: Website: http://www.sportstechgroup.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-technology-awards-group/  X: https://x.com/SportTechGroup  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-chairs-the-sports-technology-podcast/    Connect with Rebecca: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccahopkinsens    Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk   Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/

In today's episode, James speaks to Paul Gately, a professor in exercise and obesity at Leeds Beckett University, the Director of MoreLife at Leeds Metropolitan University, and the interim CEO of Obesity UK. He is one of the foremost experts in the area, consistently called upon as a keynote speaker and author in the obesity and physical activity field. Paul's drive to assist people in tackling obesity was sparked by his observations at an American weight loss camp. He established a singular weight loss camp specifically for young individuals as a result. With a professional journey spanning over two decades, Paul has directed his passion, research focus, and expertise toward Obesity UK, a leading charity committed to advocating for, educating, and aiding people navigating obesity - the authoritative voice for individuals with obesity in the UK. In a nutshell, James and Paul speak about: - His experience of school sports and weight management in comparison to today - The observations that sparked his interest in children’s obesity - How they translated from the Weight Loss Camp model - The biggest drivers in obesity rates by 2030 - His thoughts on the circumstances, culture and lived experiences that result in obesity - Which country he believes is making the best progress in weight management - His thoughts on the dynamics of home and school life that reduce obesity levels - His routines for maintaining peak performance personally and in business …and so much more! Check out Obesity UK: Website: https://www.obesityuk.org.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obesity_uk/ Connect with Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgately X: https://x.com/profpaulgately? Instagram: https://instagram.com/pauljgately Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/

In today's episode, James speaks to Gabrielle Lixton and Caroline Sparks, the Co-founders, and directors of Turtle Tots. Gaby, who had previously introduced Turtle Tots in two Bristol-based pools, recognized a growing need for swim programmes tailored to children. Both having pursued separate corporate careers before becoming parents, the two entrepreneurs joined forces after having their own children to transform Turtle Tots into a franchise business. Today, it has blossomed into a network comprising more than 50 family-owned Turtle Tots businesses spanning the UK and Ireland. Founded in 2011, Turtle Tots is a renowned and award-winning franchise specialising in children's swimming education. Their distinctive child-centred swimming program commences during pregnancy and extends into specialized baby and toddler classes after birth. Turtle Tots franchises offer international entrepreneurs the chance to operate their own business, establish a flexible work-life balance, and expand their income. In a nutshell, James, Gaby & Caroline speak about: - Their swimming and corporate history before founding Turtle Tots - Gaby's initial launch and progression of Turtles Tots - Insights from how they have grown organically 13 years into the business - Target demographics and locations of focus - How their franchise is going around the elephant in the room; access to swimming facilitates - Their biggest differentiator against the saturated UK market - Business philosophies, strategies, and personal habits that keep them on top …and so much more! Check out Turtle Tots: Website: http://www.turtletots.com YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/TurtleTotsLtd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/turtle-tots Email: [email protected] Connect with Gaby & Caroline: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinesparks https://www.linkedin.com/in/-gaby-lixton Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/

In today's episode, James speaks to Andy Evans, the CEO of QPR in the Community Trust and chair of YoungKandC. Andy, a lifelong fan, and dedicated supporter of QPR, embarked on this remarkable journey 25 years ago when he volunteered at Brentford FC, in the hopes of securing a job in sport. Since then, his trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary, having begun a community initiative football programme known as the Trust. QPR in the Community is the charitable division of QPR, illustrating the profound impact that local football teams can have on addressing needs and producing positive change for individuals and communities. The award-winning trust actively engages with the local community, offering invaluable opportunities centred around the core objectives of promoting health, education, social inclusion, and active participation. The home of the Grenfell Tower fire in London, this West London community trust has continued to foster unity in the face of that tragedy.   Tune in as James and Andy speak about - Andy's first sporting memory and early ambitions in sports - His smartest move that placed him in the career of his liking - The variety and breadth of programs they're offering currently - Recurring challenges they have to work through to run a successful trust - How he became the CEO of a football foundation - How they're engaging with the community in terms of coaching and delivery team - The reception of their program from the community & the local issues they're responding to … and so much more!   Links: Website: https://www.qpr.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/qpr-community-trust Twitter: https://twitter.com/QPRtrust?s=20 Email: [email protected] #Game4Grenfell: https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/club-news/game4grenfell-wins-prestigious-football-league-award/   Connect with Andy: Instagram:https://instagram.com/andyeqpr?igshid= Twitter: https://twitter.com/Andye10?s=   Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud

In today's episode, James interviews Anna Kenrick, a remarkable individual who wears many hats - teacher, choreographer, and Artistic Director at YDANCE. Anna's artistic prowess shines through her creations and choreography for the prestigious National Youth Dance Company of Scotland. Her mesmerizing pieces have not only toured extensively across the UK but have also captivated international audiences. Moreover, Anna's expertise extends beyond the realm of dance as she is a certified life coach and has dedicated seven years to mentoring for the Federation of Scottish Theatre.   YDANCE, also known as Scottish Youth Dance, stands as a distinguished national dance organization in Scotland, catering to children and young people. Their commitment to providing top-notch art and dance experiences is commendable, with a focus on Talent Development, Education, and Participation. Through the power of arts and dance, YDANCE offers children a distinctive platform to cultivate a wide range of skills, unlocking their full potential. Their remarkable achievements have garnered numerous accolades, solidifying their incredible mission.   Tune in as James and Anna speak about: The experience that led to her creative career Anna's journey working in teaching, collaboration, choreography, and touring How they're funding their programs and the challenges around funding Consideration given for performing arts vs stem subjects in Scotland How she's pushing for the voice of young people with or without disabilities through varied art forms What's the metric they foresee measuring against in three years to come The role technology plays in her position and authority Reflections on her personal life and career … and so much more!   Check out YDANCE: Website: https://ydance.org Instagram: https://instagram.com/ydancescotland?igshid= Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/YDanceScotland   Connect With Anna: Twitter:https://twitter.com/AnnaKenrickB?s= Email: [email protected]   Connect with James: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coordinatesport/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-moore-uk Coordinate Sport: https://coordinate.cloud/