IGNITING SUSTAINABLE CONVERSATIONS IN SPORTS
NO FILTER – NO BIAS – STRAIGHT TALK
BRIDGING SPORTS, EVENTS, INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABLY
Meet Your Host
Welcome to the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast Show, your home for open, straightforward, and thrilling conversations on the latest happenings in sports. Leading the charge for carbon-neutral sports, we bring you the most exciting and engaging discussions on the airwaves.
Hosted by Sid Bensalah, a seasoned professional in the sports industry with over 20 years of experience. Join him as he dives deep into the latest and most compelling topics in sports with no bias or restrictions. So, tune in, and don’t miss a beat!
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Recent Episodes
SEASON #02 - 2024
Rachel Kolisi | Co-Founder & CEO Kolisi Foundation
Sustainable Sports Branding: Community and Conservation.
Rachel Kolisi is the CEO and Co-Founder of the Kolisi Foundation. In this episode, she shares the transformative work her foundation is doing to tackle critical issues such as education, food security, and gender-based violence in South Africa.
Embark on a personal journey with Rachel Kolisi and the Kolisi Foundation. From the historic Rugby World Cup victory in 1995 to Siya Kolisi’s inspiring leadership in the 2019 World Cup, we delve into how the Kolis have transitioned from sports icons to community leaders, challenging inequality and empowering communities.
Uncover the profound impact of the Siyaphakama Zwide Schools Project, the community kitchens addressing food insecurity, and the gender-based violence prevention initiatives. These initiatives, spearheaded by Rachel and the Kolisi Foundation, are not just making a difference, but also paving the way for a brighter future.
Tune in for personal stories, insights on sustainable partnerships, and how sports and social impact intersect to drive meaningful progress. Learn how the Kolisi Foundation lives out its motto, “Remember the One, One by One,” and find out how you can support its mission.
To get involved, support, and donate, visit the Kolisi Foundation at www.kolisifoundation.org.
Neil Hamp-Adams | Tanya Bailey & Donovan Bailey
Sustainable Sports Branding: Community and Conservation.
Join Sid Bensalah in this enlightening Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode as we delve into the significant yet often overlooked world of sports and event branding. Discover its profound impact on the environment and communities across the globe, from the vibrant streets of South Africa to the bustling markets of the Middle East. This episode explores how sports branding intertwines with ecological and social responsibility through the innovative work of our guests.
Key Points Discussed:
- Sustainable Branding Innovations: Neil Hamp-Adams, Owner and chief customer Servant of Driving Force Advertising, unveils his sustainable branding solutions, emphasizing the reuse and better management of event materials to minimize waste and environmental impact.
- Community Impact and Recycling Efforts: Donovan Bailey, CEO of ExpandaSign, discusses how his company recycles waste into valuable products while supporting wildlife conservation through partnerships with The Bateleurs.
- Innovative Recycling Initiatives: Tanya Bailey showcases Uzwelo Bags, highlighting their unique approach to converting fabric waste into functional products like school bags and supporting conservation efforts.
Key Takeaways:
- Innovation in Waste Management: Learn about Uzwelo Bags’ creative recycling initiatives that are changing lives and contributing to environmental conservation.
- Wildlife Conservation Efforts: Discover how ExpandaSign supports The Bateleurs, an organization dedicated to wildlife protection and environmental conservation, through innovative branding solutions.
- Community Empowerment: Hear about Harry Bailey’s impactful “Run For Rangers” event, which supports to support the rangers who protect Africa’s wildlife.
Contribute to Conservation & Community:
If you’d like to support the impactful work of The Bateleurs and Run For Rangers, visit their websites to learn more about their initiatives, participate in their programs, or donate. Your contribution can help empower communities and protect wildlife.
Fiona Morgan | SailGP Chief Purpose Officer
In Conversation with SailGP: Racing Towards a Sustainable Future.
Join us as we embark on a voyage into the world of sailing with Fiona Morgan, the Chief Purpose Officer at SailGP.
This captivating Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode explores SailGP‘s groundbreaking initiatives to revolutionize the sport while prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity.
Despite not hailing from a sailing background, Fiona’s determination and passion shine through as she shares her journey of joining SailGP and shaping its vision for a more sustainable future.
Discover how SailGP sets new standards for sports leagues worldwide by providing opportunities for female athletes through its Women’s Pathway, implementing sustainable logistics practices, and championing environmental stewardship.
Fiona delves into SailGP’s pioneering strategies, including remote broadcasting, separate podiums for racing and sustainability, and remote umpiring and coaching.
Throughout the conversation, Fiona reveals her challenges as a woman entering a male-dominated sport and the broader impact of SailGP’s sustainability efforts, attracting investments from notable figures like F1 star Sebastien Vettel.
She emphasizes the need to rebrand sustainability to make it more approachable and engaging for broader audiences.
From sharing her favourite moments in SailGP to advocating for more outstanding education on climate change and environmental issues, Fiona’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond SailGP.
Tune in to learn how Fiona’s optimism, determination, and innovative thinking drive SailGP’s mission to redefine sailing and pave the way for a more sustainable future in sports.
Vikram Krishna | Sacred Groves Co-Founder
Preserving Biodiversity: A Conversation with Vikram Krishna of Sacred Groves.
In this episode, we embark on a compelling exploration of an innovative solution that stands at the forefront of biodiversity conservation. With organisations worldwide embracing carbon offsetting, we focus on an inspiring alternative — Sacred Groves. The co-founder, Vikram Krishna, takes us through this revolutionary initiative, showcasing how it intertwines technology, community engagement, and a fresh perspective on protecting natural habitats.
Key Takeaways:
- Beyond Carbon Offsetting: Explore Sacred Groves as a transformative approach beyond traditional carbon offsetting. Learn how this initiative pioneers a unique model, leveraging technology and community involvement to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity.
- The Role of the Sports Industry: Dive into the intersection of biodiversity preservation and the sports industry. Discover the potential for influential change as Vikram Krishna unravels actionable steps for individuals, companies, and athletes to contribute to sustainability.
- Conservation Commerce: Vikram shares insights into the concept of Conservation Commerce, urging businesses to integrate nature into their value propositions. Gain valuable perspectives on how companies like Pyaarnation and W.Salamoon lead the way in environmental impact.
- Local Community Engagement: Understand the significance of involving local communities in conservation efforts. Vikram sheds light on the efforts made to raise awareness and ensure the well-being of ecosystems while avoiding conflicts.
- Technology’s Role: Explore the integration of technology in Sacred Groves, from cloud-native infrastructure to blockchain. Learn how these elements create transparency, traceability, and an engaging platform for individuals and companies to monitor their impact.
- Individual and Industry Impact: Vikram inspires individuals and companies to lead by example. Discover how the sports industry, with its massive following, can drive positive change by incorporating sustainability into various aspects, from merchandise to event hosting.
Reflecting on these takeaways, it becomes evident that Sacred Groves provides a visionary path forward, inviting us all to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Subscribe, share, and leave a comment to join us on this impactful journey.
Sid Bensalah | Host of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk
Looking Back and Ahead with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.
Join Sid Bensalah, the passionate host of Pre-Zero Sports Talk, as he navigates through the impactful episodes of Season 01 and sets the stage for the exciting Season 02 ahead.
Discover the sparks that ignited this journey, delve into the stories that shaped the narrative, and explore the critical intersection of sports, events, innovation, and sustainability.
Highlights include:
Episode #01: Carbon-Neutral Sports: Insights from Paul Coleman on the urgent need for the sports industry to reduce its carbon footprint.
Episode #02: Sustainable Sports, Meetings, and Events: Neil Hamp-Adams shares the positive impact of sustainable practices in the events industry.
Episode #03: From Waste to Wear: Rory MacFadyen’s journey with REFLO highlights the importance of conscious clothing choices.
Episode #04: The Impact of Climate Change on Sports and Athlete Activism: Philippe Marquis‘ commitment to addressing climate change through athlete activism.
Episode #05: Driving Sustainable Change in Hockey: Insights from Jon Wyatt on FIH‘s remarkable journey towards a greener future in hockey.
Episode #06: From Passion to Purpose: Franziska Mesche’s vision for Tripulse exemplifies how sustainable practices seamlessly integrate into fitness, fashion, and community building.
Episode #07 & Finale: Strawberry Hotels: Mari Sandrop and Maria Anderson showcase visionary strategies and transformative initiatives in the hospitality industry.
SEASON #01 - 2023
Mari Sandrup | Strawberry Hotels- Sustainability Analyst
Maria Andersson | Strawberry Hotels- Sales Director of Meetings
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!
Franziska Mesche | Tripulse- Founder & CEO
From Passion to Purpose: Tripulse's Path to Fitness, Sustainability, and Community.
Join us for an enlightening episode as we delve into a transformative journey with Franziska Mesche, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Tripulse. Hosted by Sid Bensalah, this episode explores the heart of sustainability, sportswear innovation, and community empowerment.
Franziska’s deep commitment to sustainability and health led to the inception of Tripulse, a revolutionary activewear brand seamlessly merging fitness and eco-consciousness. Drawing on her background in management consulting and B2B tech sales, Franziska has harnessed her expertise to drive a fashion-forward movement rooted in sustainability.
Discover Franziska’s journey as she unveils her role models, including Sarah Blakely, the founder of Spanx and Yvon Chouinard, the visionary behind Patagonia. Witness how her path resonates with their tenacity and dedication to changing the world through entrepreneurship.
Franziska unwraps the complexities of Tripulse’s holistic approach, encompassing the entire product lifecycle and practices. Ethical and social practices are seamlessly integrated, ensuring transparency at every step.
Delve into the innovative Eucalyptus Fiber Innovation, a testament to Tripulse’s commitment to environmental consciousness.
Explore Franziska’s insights into Tripulse’s enduring mission: to lead the sports industry towards sustainability and inspire positive consumer behaviours. Join us for this empowering conversation that invites you to shape a more sustainable future through every choice you make.
Tune in to “Pre-Zero Sports Talk” and join the movement with Franziska Mesche and Tripulse. Let’s embark on a journey where passion, purpose, and sustainability intertwine, forging a new era of change. Be part of the movement.
Jon Wyatt | F.I.H – Sport & Sustainability Director
Driving Sustainable Change in Hockey: Exploring FIH's Commitment to a Greener Future.
In this groundbreaking episode, we engage in an honest and thought-provoking conversation with Jon Wyatt, the Sport & Sustainability Director of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). Discover FIH’s remarkable sustainability journey, making it our first-ever interview with an international sporting governing body.
Jon shares insights into FIH’s sustainability strategy, addressing challenges and initiatives to reduce hockey’s environmental footprint. Learn how FIH revolutionises artificial turf, using renewable materials like sugar cane-derived plastic and reducing water usage.
We delve into the complexities of measuring the carbon footprint within teams and throughout the season, emphasising its significance in driving sustainable change in hockey. Jon also discusses plastic grass turf’s safety considerations and FIH’s proactive approach to addressing potential risks.
Join us to highlight the benefits of embracing sustainability for athletes and teams, empowering them as passionate ambassadors. Explore FIH’s governance role in driving sustainable change and collaborations with international sporting bodies and stakeholders, ensuring the sport’s long-term sustainability.
Embark on this captivating exploration of FIH’s sustainability endeavours, shaping a greener landscape for this beloved sport. Witness the strategies, achievements, and ongoing efforts driving sustainable change in hockey.
Philippe Marquis | Coach, Freestyle Canada
The Impact of Climate Change on Sports and Athlete Activism for Sustainability.
A Journey of Triumph, Resilience, and Climate Activism.
Prepare for an extraordinary episode with our guest, Olympic athlete and coach Philippe Marquis. Philippe’s journey from a young skier to a two-time Canadian Olympian (2014, 2018) in freestyle/mogul skiing is remarkable.
Despite facing multiple challenges and injuries, Philippe’s talent and determination have propelled him to heights. But his passion doesn’t stop at the slopes – he’s also deeply committed to addressing the impact of climate change on sports, especially in the mountains he calls home.
We’ll also dive into the involvement of fossil fuel companies in the sports industry and the potential for a more sustainable future. Finally, be inspired by Philippe’s advocacy work with organisations like Protect Our Winters Canada and EcoAthletes, as he emphasises the power of passionate individuals coming together to protect the environment and secure the future of sports.
Join us as Philippe shares his insights on the challenges athletes face due to climate change, their inspiring initiatives for positive change, and the role of fans in promoting sustainability in sports.
Rory MacFadyen | Co-founder, REFLO
From Waste to Wear: The Story of REFLO's Sustainable Activewear.
In this episode, we spoke with Rory MacFadyen, Co-founder of REFLO sustainable activewear.
We covered much ground, from how REFLO got started to the production process, Rory’s explanation of REFLO’s good Greenwashing, their partnership with Eden Reforestation Project, the benefit 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.
Neil Hamp-Adams | Owner & CCS – Driving Force
Sustainable Sports, Meetings, and Events: A Focus on Eco-Friendly Equipment and Innovative Branding Solutions.
In our second episode, we enjoyed hosting Neil Hamp-Adams, Owner and CEO of Driving Force, an event management company, Cleaver Frame, a modular exhibition system, and Expandabrand, a portable outdoor branding.
Neil Shared his knowledge and insights on the significance of sustainability in the events industry, particularly in branding. He explained how reducing waste benefits the environment and helps clients’ budgets.
He talked passionately about his shift towards more sustainable business practices, starting with waste reduction and expanding to energy usage and material sourcing.
He also shared an example of Expandbrand’s commitment to sustainability by repurposing waste fabric used to manufacture flags, saving it from landfills, and producing functional products with Uzwelo Bags that benefit local communities.
He stressed the importance of considering sustainability in every aspect of event planning, from design to execution. He encouraged planners to think creatively & innovate to create Eco-Friendly solutions for branding & event equipment.
Throughout the discussion, Neil explained his three simple principles for sustainable events: Durability, Longevity, and Reusability.
Paul Coleman | Co-Founder – Fan Mobility
Carbon- Neutral Sports: The Future of Sports Sustainability.
In our first episode of the Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast, we discussed the future of sports sustainability and the importance of achieving carbon-neutral sports with Paul Coleman, Co-Founder of Fan Mobility, an Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Consultancy.
We discussed openly what the sports industry is not doing and should be doing to reduce its carbon footprint. Paul provided an overview of what carbon-neutral sports means and its importance, highlighted some challenges the sports industry faces in achieving carbon neutrality, and some examples of initiatives that sports teams and organisations have implemented. Additionally, Paul shared the ways fans can get involved in the effort to achieve carbon-neutral sports.
The episode concluded by emphasising the need for a concerted effort from the sports industry and fans to work towards a more sustainable future for sports.
Our Audience
We seek submissions of stories, opinions, and insights related to essential sports and events industry topics. Your thoughts and contributions are valuable to us as we aim to include them in our episodes.
Together, let’s shape the narrative!
What People Say
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