Paradigm Playbook

Steve Cook and Dave Kozak

Welcome to Paradigm Playbook—the one company dedicated to teaching you the practices and habits of successful sports businesses. We aim to help motivated entrepreneurs merge their passion for sports with the mission of optimizing their business.

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Episodes

Recognizing and Addressing Ineffective Business Practices: The Dead Horse Theory | Ep 78
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Recognizing and Addressing Ineffective Business Practices: The Dead Horse Theory | Ep 78
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the critical role of decision-making and adaptability in entrepreneurship within the sports business domain. This episode is packed with practical advice and key strategies that entrepreneurs can use to identify and address ineffective business practices.In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss:1. Dead Horse Theory: Learn about the "Dead Horse Theory" and its application in business. Discover why it's crucial to recognize when a strategy or process is no longer effective and needs to be abandoned.2. Importance of Change: Understand the importance of continuous improvement and the role of change in achieving business success. Explore how to identify areas that require change and implement new strategies effectively.3. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Gain insights into common pitfalls that businesses fall into, such as ignoring problems, overanalyzing data, and forming committees without taking action. Learn how to avoid these traps and make decisive changes.4. Effective KPI Tracking: Discover the significance of tracking the right Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and how to use them to monitor the health of your business. Learn about setting meaningful KPIs that provide actionable insights.5. Adapting to Market Changes: Listen to discussions on the necessity of adapting to market changes and the benefits of staying flexible in your business approach. Hear real-life examples of successful adaptations and the positive impact they had on businesses.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this comprehensive episode, loaded with invaluable tips for anyone looking to enhance their entrepreneurial skills through effective decision-making and adaptability. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to improve your current practices, Dave and Steve offer the guidance and motivation you need to excel. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
The Power of Mentorship in Entrepreneurship | Ep 77
May 22 2024
The Power of Mentorship in Entrepreneurship | Ep 77
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the critical role of mentorship in entrepreneurship within the sports business domain. This episode is packed with practical advice and key strategies that entrepreneurs can use to find and benefit from mentors.In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss:1. Importance of Mentorship: Discover the invaluable role mentors play in personal and professional growth. Learn how to identify and approach potential mentors in various fields, including sports business.2. Types of Mentors: Explore the different types of mentors you can have, from those you work with directly to authors and public figures who inspire you through their work and teachings.3. Building Mentor Relationships: Gain insights on how to build and maintain meaningful relationships with your mentors. Learn the importance of humility and openness in these relationships.4. Learning from Diverse Sources: Understand the benefits of seeking knowledge and mentorship from diverse sources, including competitors, peers, and even younger individuals who can offer fresh perspectives.5. Overcoming Ego and Seeking Help: Listen to discussions on the challenges of overcoming ego to ask for help and advice. Discover how seeking mentorship can lead to personal development and business success.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this comprehensive episode, loaded with invaluable tips for anyone looking to enhance their entrepreneurial skills through effective mentorship. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to improve your current practices, Dave and Steve offer the guidance and motivation you need to excel. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
From Pre-Med to Gym Mogul: Bill Borges' Entrepreneurial Leap | Ep 76
May 21 2024
From Pre-Med to Gym Mogul: Bill Borges' Entrepreneurial Leap | Ep 76
Tune into an inspiring episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, titled "From Pre-Med to Gym Mogul: Bill Borges' Entrepreneurial Leap", where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook engage with successful entrepreneur Bill Borges. This episode offers a wealth of insights for sports business entrepreneurs looking to scale their ventures and navigate the challenges of growth. Key highlights include:Journey from Pre-Med to Entrepreneur: Bill Borges shares his unexpected transition from a pre-med student to a gym owner. His passion for gymnastics led him to buy the gym where he worked part-time, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey. Scaling a Gymnastics Business: Bill recounts how he grew his gym from a small 4,000 square foot facility with 108 students to a sprawling 20,000 square foot complex. He emphasizes the importance of expanding income streams and scaling facilities to meet growing demands.Lessons in Entrepreneurship: The discussion highlights the value of seeking help and gathering information. Bill advises against having a big ego and underscores the importance of asking for advice and learning from others to overcome business challenges.Building a Comprehensive Gymnastics Hub: Bill discusses his latest venture, allgymnastics.com, a central hub for everything related to gymnastics. This platform offers resources for parents, coaches, and athletes, along with a community for sharing knowledge and experiences.Mindset for Success: Dave and Steve reflect on the traits of successful entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of hard work, persistence, and continuous learning. They share how building capacity and handling increasing challenges is a natural part of entrepreneurial growth.Join Dave and Steve in this enriching episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast to gain valuable insights from Bill Borges' entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are managing a sports facility or looking to expand your business, this episode is filled with actionable advice to help you achieve your goals. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Mastering the Game: Essential Skills for Sports Entrepreneurs | Ep 75
May 9 2024
Mastering the Game: Essential Skills for Sports Entrepreneurs | Ep 75
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook dissect essential skills for entrepreneurship within the sports business domain. This episode is rich with practical advice and key strategies that entrepreneurs can use to build and maintain successful sports businesses.In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss:Continuous Learning and Growth: Understand the critical importance of evolving with your business. Learn how to avoid being surpassed by your own enterprise by constantly acquiring new knowledge and skills.Essential Entrepreneurial Skills: Dive into the vital skills every entrepreneur should cultivate, such as effective learning techniques, humility, and openness to new information. These are crucial for personal and professional growth.Creating Habits and Discipline: Discover the role of habits and discipline in applying knowledge consistently. Explore how these practices help maintain momentum and prevent stagnation in business operations.Resilience and Adaptation: Listen to discussions on the importance of resilience, the ability to thrive amidst failures, and the persistence to continue striving for success, which are fundamental traits for any successful entrepreneur.Strategic Thinking and Learning: Gain insights on the necessity of setting aside regular time for strategic thinking and ongoing education to foster long-term success and stay ahead in the competitive sports business landscape.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this comprehensive episode, loaded with invaluable tips for anyone looking to hone their entrepreneurial skills in the sports business. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to enhance your current practices, Dave and Steve offer the guidance and motivation you need to excel. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Mastering the Mirror: The Power of Self-Awareness in Sports Entrepreneurship | Ep 74
Apr 29 2024
Mastering the Mirror: The Power of Self-Awareness in Sports Entrepreneurship | Ep 74
Tune into an enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, titled "Mastering the Mirror: The Power of Self-Awareness in Sports Entrepreneurship", where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the significance of self-awareness for entrepreneurs in the sports business. This episode offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs eager to enhance their leadership skills and achieve greater personal and professional fulfillment. Key highlights include:Importance of Self-Awareness: Dave and Steve explore how self-awareness influences every aspect of business, from personal satisfaction to the setup of one's work environment. They stress the importance of entrepreneurs developing a deep understanding of their own motives, strengths, and weaknesses to align their work with their true passions.Educational Gaps in Self-Awareness: The hosts discuss the lack of focus on self-awareness in traditional education and how vital this skill is for effective leadership and management. They highlight the necessity for ongoing personal development to foster a successful entrepreneurial mindset.Practical Applications of Self-Awareness: Through personal anecdotes and real-world examples, Dave and Steve show how self-awareness can lead to better business strategies and decision-making. These stories illustrate the practical benefits of self-awareness in managing and growing a sports business.Personal Stories and Insights: The hosts share insights from their own experiences as entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts, showing how self-awareness has played a crucial role in their professional journeys and the management of their sports facilities.Core Values and Service: Dave and Steve discuss the importance of enriching others' lives as a fundamental principle of their business philosophy. They emphasize how being of service not only benefits others but also enhances one's own sense of purpose and satisfaction in business.Join Dave and Steve in this engaging episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast to gain insights on the importance of self-awareness in sports business management and leadership. Whether you are just starting out or seeking to deepen your entrepreneurial approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate your journey more effectively. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Leading Without Limits: Overcoming Superman Syndrome | Ep 73
Apr 17 2024
Leading Without Limits: Overcoming Superman Syndrome | Ep 73
Tune into an insightful episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, titled "Leading Without Limits: Overcoming Superman Syndrome", where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the challenges and strategies for effective leadership in sports business. This episode provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs seeking to optimize their business management and achieve exponential growth. Key highlights include:Importance of Focus and Reflection: The hosts discuss the crucial balance between focusing on what you can control and what is important, using the Venn diagram as a visual aid. They stress the necessity for entrepreneurs to regularly reflect on their decisions and the operational aspects of their business to ensure alignment with their strategic goals.Introduction to Strategic Business Tools: Dave and Steve introduce listeners to essential business tools such as process designers, impact filters, and opportunity filters. These tools are designed to aid in workload management and decision-making, helping entrepreneurs streamline their operations and maximize efficiency.Challenges of 'Superman Syndrome': The episode explores the 'Superman Syndrome', a common pitfall among entrepreneurs who try to handle too much on their own. The hosts discuss the importance of delegating tasks and the impact of taking on too many responsibilities, which can hinder business growth and personal development.Real-World Applications and Experiences: Through personal anecdotes and real-life examples, Dave and Steve demonstrate how the discussed strategies and tools can be practically applied in a sports business context. These stories provide listeners with relatable scenarios that showcase the benefits of strategic planning and effective leadership.Future Directions and Growth Strategies: Looking ahead, the hosts hint at future discussions on overcoming entrepreneurial challenges like the 'Superman Syndrome'. They advocate for a proactive approach to learning and applying new strategies to ensure sustained growth and success in the sports business industry.Join Dave and Steve in this engaging episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast to gain insights on navigating the complexities of sports business management and leadership. Whether you are starting out or looking to enhance your current practices, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive in your entrepreneurial journey. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Strategic Tools for Sports Business Mastery | Ep 72
Apr 10 2024
Strategic Tools for Sports Business Mastery | Ep 72
Tune into an engaging episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook share their wisdom on Strategic Tools for Sports Business Mastery. This episode is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs in the sports business looking to elevate their ventures. Dave and Steve, with their rich entrepreneurial backgrounds and passion for sports, offer an in-depth look into essential tools and strategies for success. They discuss:- The Transition from Entrepreneurs to Business Visionaries: The hosts emphasize the evolution necessary for entrepreneurs to become successful business owners, focusing on strategic planning and execution rather than just ideation.- Introduction to Strategic Business Tools: Dive deep into the discussion about critical tools that have propelled the hosts' businesses forward. Special attention is given to the "long-term marketing opportunity filter," a strategic framework for evaluating and seizing business opportunities.- The Art of Listening and Decision Making: Learn the significance of paying attention to what your business, customers, and market dynamics are communicating. The hosts explore the concept of "soak time" as a vital component of reflective decision-making.- Real-World Applications and Experiences: Dave and Steve share anecdotes from their own businesses, demonstrating how strategic tools can be applied in practical scenarios for process improvement, customer service enhancement, and more.- Future Directions and Growth Strategies: The episode hints at upcoming discussions, including tackling the "Superman syndrome" among entrepreneurs. The hosts advocate for a proactive approach to learning and applying new strategies for sustained business growth.Join us for this insightful Paradigm Playbook podcast episode to gain valuable knowledge on building a thriving sports business with the right tools and strategies. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, Dave and Steve's expert advice will guide you towards achieving your business goals. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Answering To The Business | Ep 71
Apr 3 2024
Answering To The Business | Ep 71
Join us for an insightful episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve deep into the concept of "Answering to the Business." In this episode, they explore the crucial shift from technician to business owner, the significance of listening to your business, and the essential steps for sustainable growth in the sports business sector. Drawing from real-life examples and their extensive experience, Dave and Steve discuss:- The Transition from Technician to Manager to Owner: Understand the importance of evolving from doing the work yourself to managing and owning the process, and how this transition is vital for business growth.- Listening to Your Business: Learn how to pay attention to what your business is telling you, from financial signals to customer feedback, and why this listening is critical for making informed decisions.- The Importance of Financial and Statistical Awareness: Discover the role of financials and analytics in guiding your business decisions, and how ignoring these can be detrimental to your business health.- Real-world Examples of Answering to the Business: Gain insights from Dave and Steve’s experiences and consulting work, including how sacrificing personal gain for business needs can be necessary for long-term success.- Strategies for Sustainable Business Growth: Uncover actionable strategies for scaling your business, focusing on delegation, corporate structure, and the long-term vision for your company.Tune into this episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast for a wealth of knowledge on building a winning sports business by effectively answering to the demands of your business. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner in the sports sector, Dave and Steve offer invaluable advice and perspectives to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of business ownership. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Unreasonable Hospitality: How to Give the Best Service | Ep 70
Mar 7 2024
Unreasonable Hospitality: How to Give the Best Service | Ep 70
Join us for a captivating episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts David Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the art of exceptional customer service in the sports business arena. This episode is densely packed with actionable insights and strategic approaches to revolutionize your customer experience, drawing from the episode themed around "Unreasonable Hospitality."In this episode, David and Steve discuss:The Philosophy of Unreasonable Hospitality: Explore the profound impact of exceeding customer expectations through the lens of Eleven Madison Park, a top-rated restaurant known for its unparalleled service and attention to detail. Learn how applying these principles can set your sports business apart.The Anatomy of Exceptional Service: Discover the meticulous components that contribute to creating memorable customer experiences, from the precise arrangement of dining utensils to the personal touches that turn first-time visitors into lifelong patrons.Strategies for Elevating Customer Experience: Uncover practical steps and innovative strategies for enhancing the customer journey within your business, ensuring that every interaction contributes to a positive and unforgettable experience.Real-world Applications and Anecdotes: Be inspired by stories from the sports business field and beyond, illustrating the transformative power of focusing on customer satisfaction and the nuances of implementing these practices effectively.Long-term Impact on Business Success: Absorb the far-reaching benefits of adopting an ethos of unreasonable hospitality, including building a loyal customer base, enhancing brand reputation, and ultimately driving sustainable growth and success in the competitive sports business landscape.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this insightful episode, packed with invaluable advice for anyone looking to elevate their game in the sports business through exceptional customer service. Whether you're just starting out or aiming to refine your approach, David and Steve provide the expertise and inspiration you need to succeed. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Hustle Harder: A Sports Entrepreneur's Guide to Success | Ep. 69
Feb 28 2024
Hustle Harder: A Sports Entrepreneur's Guide to Success | Ep. 69
Join us for an engaging episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, where hosts David Kozak and Steve Cook share their profound insights tailored for entrepreneurs navigating the sports business landscape. This episode offers a concise, 15-minute exploration packed with actionable wisdom and essential strategies for fostering business resilience and mastery in opportunity management.In this installment, David and Steve cover:The Essence of Hustle in Entrepreneurship: Dive deep into the nuanced understanding of hustle, redefining it as a strategic fusion of discipline, hard work, resilience, and innovation essential for achieving business success.Mathematical Formula for Hustle: Unveil a unique formula that captures the hustle's core components, illustrating how creativity, effort, grit, and discipline collectively forge the pathway to entrepreneurial achievement.Sustaining Hustle Over Time: Learn about the pivotal factors that ensure your hustle remains vibrant and productive, including maintaining a clear purpose, continuously setting and pursuing new goals, effectively choosing and overcoming competition, and staying open to new challenges.Applying Hustle in Real-world Scenarios: Gain insights from personal anecdotes and experiences shared by the hosts, emphasizing the importance of focused effort, realistic expectations, and distinguishing between mere busyness and productive hustle.Strategic Insights for Long-term Success: Absorb strategic advice on cultivating a genuine hustle that transcends conventional practices, leading to sustainable growth and success in the sports business sector.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this enlightening episode and more, filled with invaluable insights for building and scaling a successful sports business. Whether you're in the early stages of entrepreneurship or looking to elevate your existing business, David and Steve offer the guidance you need to navigate the playbook of success in the dynamic world of sports business. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Maximizing Growth & Opportunities | Ep 68
Feb 22 2024
Maximizing Growth & Opportunities | Ep 68
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast hosted by the insightful duo, David Kozak and Steve Cook. This episode is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs in the sports business realm, offering a compact, 15-minute guide filled with actionable advice and strategic wisdom to help you navigate the complexities of business growth and opportunity management.In this episode, David and Steve delve into:The Power of SWOT Analysis: Unpack the significance of SWOT analysis in identifying your business's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, with a particular focus on marketing and growth strategies.Opportunity Recognition & Selection: Learn the critical skill of spotting and choosing the right opportunities that align with your business vision, and understand the importance of saying no to those that don't.Strategic Patience - Slowing Down to Speed Up: Explore how sometimes taking a step back can lead to more significant, more sustainable growth, ensuring that your business remains true to its core vision.The Challenges of Scaling vs. Growth: Distinguish between scaling and growing your business, discussing the challenges each process entails and how to approach them without losing sight of your work-life balance.A Culture-Centric Approach to Expansion: Discover the importance of maintaining a strong, positive culture within your business as you grow, ensuring that expansion enhances rather than dilutes the quality and values of your brand.Tune into the Paradigm Playbook podcast for this and more episodes filled with invaluable insights for building a winning sports business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing operation, David and Steve are here to guide you through the playbook of success in the sports business world. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Empowering Teams with Positivity: A Chat with Marcella Miciano | Ep 67
Feb 2 2024
Empowering Teams with Positivity: A Chat with Marcella Miciano | Ep 67
In this inspiring episode of "Paradigm Playbook," host Steve Cook broadcasts live from the Hyatt Regency in Orlando, Florida, during the US Swim School Association National Conference. He is joined by Marcelo Marciano, a dynamic professional specializing in positivity, training, and team development. Marcella shares her extensive background in children's programs at resorts and hotels, her experience running a mail and swim school, and her foray into sales and marketing in the corporate world.The episode delves into Marcella's passion for working with industries and entrepreneurs focused on children and families, highlighting her expertise in swimming and child development. She emphasizes the transformative power of positivity in leadership and team dynamics, crediting her father as her inspiration and discussing her association with the Jon Gordon companies, known for their emphasis on positive leadership.Marcella also touches on the importance of team building and communication, addressing how leaders can foster a positive culture within their organizations. The conversation covers the principles from Jon Gordon's influential books, such as "The Energy Bus," and how these concepts can be applied in both corporate and recreational settings to enhance team performance and morale.The episode concludes with Marcella offering insights on customizing training programs for various organizations and providing contact information for those interested in learning more about her services. Listeners are left with valuable takeaways on leadership, team building, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of business challenges. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Marketing, KPIs, and Customer Experience | Ep 66
Jan 31 2024
Marketing, KPIs, and Customer Experience | Ep 66
Welcome to the Paradigm Playbook Podcast, where your hosts, Dave Kozak and Steve Cook, dive deep into the world of sports entrepreneurship. Bringing years of successful business experience and a passion for sports, Dave and Steve share their insights and strategies for building a thriving sports business.🎙️ Episode Highlights:- Marketing by the Numbers: Discover how to leverage data-driven marketing strategies to attract and retain clients in the sports industry.- KPIs & Customer Experience: Learn about the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and how they intertwine with exceptional customer experiences.- Effective Campaigns: Gain insights into creating targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with your specific audience.- Content Marketing: Understand the role of content marketing in today’s digital age and how it can lead customers to choose your services.- Profitability Focus: Explore strategies for identifying and focusing on the most profitable segments of your sports business.🚀 In This Episode:Join us as we discuss the seldom-talked-about aspect of marketing in the sports business world. From the importance of focusing on marketing KPIs to the intricacies of content marketing and customer experience, we cover it all. We also delve into practical tips for targeting your marketing efforts and understanding the profitability of different business segments.💡 For Entrepreneurs: Whether you're a seasoned sports business owner or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insights to help you elevate your business.📣 We Want to Hear from You: Your feedback matters! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions to help us tailor our future episodes to your interests.🔗 Stay Connected: Don't forget to subscribe for the latest episodes and join our growing community of sports business enthusiasts!#ParadigmPlaybook #SportsBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #PodcastForEntrepreneurs Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
From Gymnast to Gymnastics Guru: Stephanie Savas' Entrepreneurial Leap | Ep 65
Jan 26 2024
From Gymnast to Gymnastics Guru: Stephanie Savas' Entrepreneurial Leap | Ep 65
In this compelling episode of "Paradigm Playbook Playmakers" hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook engage with Stephanie Savas, a former competitive gymnast who turned her passion into a thriving business. Stephanie recounts her journey from her early days in gymnastics to coaching, which she used to support herself through college. A pivotal moment came when she managed a satellite gymnastics facility, leading her to realize her knack for business. This revelation propelled her to create a business plan at just 20 years old and establish her own gymnastics school. Her story unfolds as she navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship while simultaneously pursuing her education, offering listeners insights into the importance of adaptability, vision, and strategic planning in business growth.The conversation then shifts to Stephanie's experience in expanding her business, highlighting the critical aspects of networking, understanding cash flow, and the nuances of business expansion. Stephanie shares how she managed to outgrow and upgrade her facilities, eventually adding satellite locations. Her decision to sell the business after 18 years to focus on her family and new ventures, including a role in teaching and consulting, underscores the multifaceted nature of her career journey. Throughout the episode, Dave and Steve extract valuable lessons from Stephanie's experiences, emphasizing the balance between passion and practical business management, and the importance of a growth mindset for entrepreneurs. This episode is not just a narrative of success in the sports business world; it's a rich source of inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to transform a passion into a successful entrepreneurial venture. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
Strategic Use of Metrics and KPIs | Ep 64
Jan 24 2024
Strategic Use of Metrics and KPIs | Ep 64
Welcome to the latest episode of Paradigm Playbook, where hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook delve into the intricacies of using metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to fuel growth and efficiency in the sports business sector. This episode is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone interested in the sports industry's financial side. Key highlights include:- Expert Insights: Dave and Steve, seasoned entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts, share their extensive knowledge and experiences in business management and growth strategies.- Understanding and Application of Financial Metrics: Learn how to effectively understand and apply financial insights to grow and scale your sports business. Discover the importance of focusing on crucial metrics without getting lost in the details.- In-Depth Analysis of KPIs: The episode emphasizes the significance of Key Performance Indicators in monitoring and steering business health. Understand how different departments can leverage KPIs for cohesive business strategies.- Real-World Business Scenarios: Gain insights from practical examples of revenue tracking, customer conversion, and the impact of external factors like seasonality on business performance.- Collaborative Strategy Building: Listen to a simulated directors' meeting, where department heads discuss aligning various business components, offering listeners an insider's view of strategic planning in action.Whether you're running a sports facility, a budding entrepreneur, or just interested in the business behind sports, this episode offers valuable insights into making data-driven decisions for business success. Tune into Paradigm Playbook and take the first step towards optimizing your business strategy today! Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
From Gymnast to Global Guru: Jeff Lulla's Journey in Shaping the Gymnastics Business Landscape | Ep 63
Jan 19 2024
From Gymnast to Global Guru: Jeff Lulla's Journey in Shaping the Gymnastics Business Landscape | Ep 63
In this captivating episode of Paradigm Playbook, Steve Cook introduces us to the inspiring world of Jeff Lulla, a renowned figure in the gymnastics community. As the founder of Fun & Fit Gymnastics, Jeff has spent over three decades shaping the world of recreational gymnastics, both as a passionate coach and a visionary business leader.Jeff's journey, from a competitive gymnast to a multi-faceted educator and business strategist, is a testament to his dedication and impact on the sport. His recognition as the USA Gymnastics Business Leader of the Year and role as a Business Ambassador speak volumes about his influence in the gymnastics community.With over 25 years of experience in teaching the USA Gymnastics Safety Certification course and authoring various curriculums, Jeff has become a pivotal figure in shaping educational standards in gymnastics. His expertise is not confined to the US alone; Jeff has shared his knowledge and insights at industry congresses across the USA, Canada, and Australia, and at the Cal Elite Summit, a personal development conference.Jeff's global reach extends through his consulting work, having advised clients in diverse countries such as China, Vietnam, Australia, the UK, the USA, and Canada. His innovative Fun & Fit Gymnastics Program, a comprehensive instructor training and lesson planning system, has been a game-changer in the field. Since its inception in 1991, the program has been licensed to hundreds of gym clubs worldwide and is now accessible online through the LEAP Learning and Smart Moves platforms.In this episode, Steve and Jeff explore the intricacies of transforming a passion for sports into a thriving business. They delve into the challenges and triumphs of managing a successful sports enterprise, discussing the importance of safety, technology, class behavior management, and effective employment practices. Jeff's insights into preschool and recreational education provide invaluable lessons for all ages.Whether you're a gymnastics enthusiast, a business owner in the sports industry, or someone intrigued by the fusion of athletics and entrepreneurship, this episode offers a unique perspective on success, innovation, and leadership in the dynamic world of gymnastics. Join us in discovering Jeff Lulla's extraordinary journey and the valuable lessons it holds for anyone aspiring to make an impact in their field. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
The Numbers Game: Navigating Financials in Sports Business | Ep 62
Jan 18 2024
The Numbers Game: Navigating Financials in Sports Business | Ep 62
In this engaging episode of Paradigm Playbook, hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook explore the crucial importance of financial mastery in the sports business industry. They emphasize the necessity for entrepreneurs to have a deep understanding of their business's financial aspects, including the bottom line, accounting principles, and taxation. The conversation is tailored for sports business owners and coaches, highlighting how financial literacy is essential for both survival and sustainable growth.Dave and Steve use real-world examples to illustrate the impact of financial decisions on business expansion and investment. They discuss scenarios such as purchasing new equipment or facilities, stressing how these decisions should be grounded in a solid comprehension of the business’s financial health. The hosts provide practical advice on aligning business expansion with financial capability, underlining the significance of planning and forecasting in the sports industry.The episode concludes with a focus on the long-term implications of financial planning and opportunity cost in scaling up a business. Dave and Steve’s dynamic dialogue offers listeners valuable insights into effectively managing and growing a sports business through financial acumen. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the sports industry looking to enhance their understanding of business finances and make strategic, informed decisions for their enterprise. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube
What's the Deal with Pricing? | Ep 61
Jan 10 2024
What's the Deal with Pricing? | Ep 61
In this enlightening episode of the Paradigm Playbook podcast, hosts Dave Kozak and Steve Cook dive deep into the often overlooked yet crucial aspect of pricing in the sports business industry. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs who are looking to refine their pricing strategies and boost their business growth in the new year.Throughout the discussion, Dave and Steve, both seasoned business owners and sports enthusiasts, share their invaluable insights and experiences. They explore the delicate balance between gross profit, net profit, and market conditions, providing listeners with actionable advice on setting and adjusting prices effectively. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding customer price sensitivity and conducting a thorough analysis of the competitive landscape.Moreover, the episode sheds light on innovative approaches to pricing, such as implementing small, frequent price changes, and the necessity of testing price points to ensure optimal customer retention. Dave and Steve also discuss the power of creative pricing strategies, including adjusting service durations and introducing add-ons, to maximize profits without alienating customers.Whether you're running a sports facility or a financial planning practice, this episode of Paradigm Playbook offers a wealth of knowledge on how to navigate the complex world of pricing. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding and to equip yourself with the tools needed for a winning pricing strategy in the competitive sports business arena. Follow us: Paradigm PlaybookInstagramFacebookYouTube