The Forging Excellence Show
The Forging Excellence Show
Mark Smith & Christine Kawai
Mark Smith and Christine Kawai talk to the leaders in their field about facing the fires of life and coming out stronger on the other side. 
Earl "The Twirl" Cureton: His Legacy Lives On
Join Christine and Mark as they honor the life and legacy of their beloved friend, Earl "The Twirl" Cureton.In this heartfelt episode, Christine and Mark share personal stories and memories of Earl, a man known for his unwavering kindness, generosity, and dedication to his community. Hear from those who knew Earl best, including Kurt David, Muggsy Bogues, and Derrick Coleman, as they reflect on his impact on the basketball world and beyond.Discover the lasting legacy of Earl Cureton through t...
Sep 3, 2024
50 min
Olympics Rewind
Join Christine and Mark for a thrilling trip down memory lane as they relive the excitement of the Olympics!In this episode of The Forging Excellence Show, we dive into the heart of the Games with two passionate sports fans. From the dazzling opening ceremony to the breathtaking athletic feats, Christine and Mark share their favorite moments and discuss what makes the Olympics so special.Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as they recount everything from the nail-biting basketball final...
Aug 21, 2024
47 min
Location, Location, Location!
This week on The Forging Excellence Show, Christine and Mark are diving deep into the fascinating world of sports facility development.Fresh off her home purchase adventure (and the joys – and challenges – of home improvement!), Christine brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Together, they explore the crucial role of location selection for SMITH arenas.But it's not just about finding a great spot on the map. Mark and Christine delve into the science behind location selection, disc...
Jul 3, 2024
1 hr 2 min
David Holloway
Check out Inside The Holloway Huddle for only $1!!Use coupon code: WIN2024http://www.davidholloway.com/membership/ Learn more about hiring David today! http://www.davidholloway.com/In this episode of The Forging Excellence Show, Christine and Mark welcome David Holloway, a former pro athlete turned success coach, for an inspiring conversation that will equip you with the tools to excel in all aspects of life. David dives deep into his journey, sharing the importance of serving ...
Jun 18, 2024
55 min
Let's Meet Mark and Christine
Dive deep into the world of sports with Mark and Christine, the hosts of the Forging Excellence Show, as they chat about everything from interview secrets to the pure joy of competition. Hear Christine's inspiring journey from figure skating to the camaraderie of swimming, and discover Mark's passion for a whole range of sports, including baseball, softball, and even golf! They'll remind you why we love sports – the fun, the friendships, and the pure enjoyment of the game. Go beyond the ...
Jun 4, 2024
1 hr 5 min
We All Begin Somewhere
Ever dreamed of taking your athletic passion to the next level? In this inspiring first episode of Forging Excellence, Mark Smith and Christine Kawai take us behind the scenes of SMITH arenas, a revolutionary concept designed to empower athletes of all ages and abilities.Mark and Christine delve into the inspiration that sparked the creation of SMITH arenas, highlighting the critical need for well-equipped and inclusive sports facilities within communities. They explore the unique "360 approa...
May 22, 2024
49 min
Darnell Blackburn
Darnell Blackburn joins Christine Kawai and Mark Smith covering various topics including first impressions, authenticity, mindset, encouragement, and overcoming challenges. Darnell shares his experience of meeting Mark for the first time during their MBA program and how Mark's consistent personality made a lasting impression. They discuss the importance of being true to oneself and embracing vulnerability. Darnell also talks about his role as a traffic reporter for WDIV Detroit and the c...
May 8, 2024
48 min
Chris Gronkowski
Mark and Christine interview Chris Gronkowski, former NFL player turned entrepreneur and CEO of Ice Shaker. They discuss Chris's journey from being a professional athlete to starting his own business, the experience of appearing on Shark Tank, and the growth and versatility of the Ice Shaker brand. Chris shares insights on the importance of customer feedback, the power of licensing and partnerships, and the future innovations he is working on for the company. Chris discusses his experien...
Apr 24, 2024
42 min