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What happens when a journey on the padel court leads to new horizons? Join me as we celebrate the remarkable story of Pol Viera, who transitioned from coaching in Stratford to becoming an integral part of Padel Art in Dubai. Pol shares his initial fears and excitement about moving to the Middle East, detailing the unexpected opportunity that led him to this vibrant city. From his first impressions of Dubai’s breathtaking skyline to the warmth of its people, Pol’s reflections paint a vivid picture of cultural contrasts and personal growth. We reminisce about his invaluable contributions over the past two years and the sense of community that made Padel Art feel like home.

Our conversation takes a turn towards transformation and new beginnings as Pol embarks on a career in real estate. We discuss the initial challenges faced while establishing Paddle Art and the essential human touch that kept the club thriving. The narrative unfolds with heartfelt anecdotes about the supportive relationships and events that fostered a unique sense of belonging. We explore the courage it takes to embrace new opportunities, as Pol seeks fresh challenges without economic limits, and express gratitude for the friendships built along the way.

Amidst all the change, the bond with Padel Art remains strong, reflecting on shared passions and future aspirations. Together with my co-host, we delve into personal stories of rediscovering a love for padel, highlighting the importance of childhood interests in shaping our professional paths. As we toast to Pol's new adventure, there's a hopeful anticipation for the future—dreaming of selling villas, reconnecting over the game, and perhaps even a new car on the horizon. This is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the journeys that make life so enriching.

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Ever wondered how to transition from managing football stars to spearheading major padel sports events in Dubai? Ivan Modia, our esteemed guest and the mastermind behind the Premier Padel event in Dubai, takes us on an intriguing journey through his diverse career in sports management. From his roots as a sports journalist to revolutionizing the Davis Cup format alongside Gerard Piqué, Ivan’s story is one of passion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the sporting world.

Planning a world-class padel tournament in a city known for its opulence comes with its unique challenges and rewards. We delve into the complexities of event logistics, from securing iconic venues like the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium to crafting a marketing strategy that resonates with the city’s dynamic audience. Learn how Ivan and his team creatively navigate the competitive event market, leveraging the sport's growing popularity and strategic collaborations with Dubai Tourism to ensure a successful and memorable tournament.

In the broader landscape of paddle sports, Ivan shares strategies for international expansion and the financial hurdles faced by players. His insights into building strong sports communities and his admiration for the human qualities of legendary athletes like Roger Federer and David Beckham enrich our understanding of what it takes to thrive in this industry. Whether you're a padel enthusiast or new to the sport, this episode promises a captivating look into the intricate world of sports management and the exciting future of padel on the global stage.

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Unlock the secrets of naturopathy with my incredibly insightful guest, Debra Marsh—my mom and a dedicated naturopath. Together, we explore how our bodies can naturally heal and thrive when we make mindful lifestyle choices. Discover why it's crucial to look beyond quick fixes and focus on the root causes of health issues. Debra sheds light on how our body's elimination processes, like urination, can reveal much about our well-being. Whether you're an athlete or a casual fitness enthusiast, learn how staying hydrated and adapting to different environments can significantly impact your health.

In our engaging discussion, we tackle common misconceptions in health and fitness. Processed foods plague modern diets, but the pathway to better gut health lies in fresh, minimally processed foods, especially for athletes. We challenge the notion that high-intensity workouts are the ultimate fitness solution and advocate for the benefits of incorporating consistent, natural movements like yoga and stretching into daily routines. Natural remedies for inflammation, including blackcurrant, thyme, and rosemary, take center stage as Libra shares their detoxifying powers that help reduce pain and enhance overall health.

For those passionate about sports and wellness, Debra offers practical tips to reduce aches and pains, emphasizing the importance of hydration, liver detoxification, and regular stretching. Discover how personalized naturopathic consultations can provide deeper insights into your health, potentially transforming your approach to well-being. As we weave through the conversation, we emphasize the importance of integrating natural health practices while acknowledging the vital role of traditional medicine, ultimately fostering a healthier lifestyle that boosts both well-being and sports performance.

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Join us for an insightful conversation with Dominic Bechard IG:@padelpicasso, Australia's premier padel player, as he unveils the inspiring journey of the Australian team at the Asia-Africa World Cup qualifiers in Kuwait. Dominic shares the highs and lows of competing as amateurs against seasoned teams, revealing the strategic planning and adaptability that propelled them to secure an impressive second place. Along the way, we explore Dominic's personal experiences in Dubai, the art of forming effective player pairings, and how compatibility can make or break a match. Discover the essential elements of their training sessions and the unique challenges faced in observing and planning for opponents.

We also tackle the hurdles in expanding the sport of padel in Australia, from the scarcity of courts to the complex web of government regulations and land ownership. This episode uncovers the potential role tennis clubs could play in making padel more accessible, alongside efforts to attract investment and boost awareness. Experience the luxury paddle scene in Kuwait through Dominic's eyes and compare it to the Australian landscape where playing requires more effort and planning. As we conclude, there's a nod to the vibrant padel scene in Dubai and a hopeful vision for the future growth of padel in Australia, supported by national sporting bodies and enthusiasts alike.

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Ever wondered how an unexpected career twist can lead to an inspiring transformation? Sawsan Saad, a renowned journalist and TV presenter in Dubai, shares her remarkable journey from financial consultancy to the limelight of sports journalism. Discover how Sawsan tackled her first live event at the Padel Master in Dubai with little knowledge of the sport and swiftly adapted to become an influential voice in the field. Her focus on the human element in interviews and transition from English to Arabic media offers valuable insights for anyone looking to pivot their career path or delve into sports journalism.

Sawsan’s story doesn’t stop there. Uncover the surprising leap she made when she was selected as a TV presenter for Fox International channels without prior notice. She shares the bold steps she took, including resigning from her job and moving out of her home, to pursue her newfound passion. Throughout the episode, Sawsan reflects on how she balances the dynamic energy she brings to her professional life with a calm and composed personal life. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical, mental, and spiritual harmony through daily routines and athletic discipline, which she attributes to her success and well-being.

From navigating the pandemic's challenges to discovering the sport of padel, Sawsan describes how paddle classes helped her overcome depression and renewed her zest for life. We also delve into the transformative potential of AI in padel and how it could revolutionize athlete training. Finally, Sawsan introduces her startup, Alivo, aimed at revitalizing individuals through padel and media. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration, exploring the balance of thoughts and emotions, and offering practical advice for pushing through self-doubt and achieving new levels of success. Join us for an episode filled with compelling stories and actionable insights from the extraordinary Sawsan Saad.

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What if managing a sports club meant more than just overseeing facilities and events? Discover the hidden challenges and rewards of sports club management in the racket sports world with our guest, Diego. From the grueling schedules and long hours to the surprising necessity of stepping away from the club to handle administrative tasks, Diego sheds light on the reality of being a general manager. Hear a touching story about a life-changing accident that highlights the dedication and resilience required in this field, along with insights on balancing personal pursuits like triathlon training for mental and physical well-being.

Entrepreneurship in the sports industry is not just about making profits; it's about enjoying the journey, taking calculated risks, and maintaining valuable relationships. We explore Diego's transition from a background in tennis to an unexpected yet flourishing business venture in paddle sports during the pandemic. Learn how early morning routines and physical challenges can inspire both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Through Diego’s personal stories, we see how a passion for sports, combined with strategic contacts and market demands, has led to a thriving enterprise in the UAE.

Youth sports participation is crucial for physical and mental health, and creating positive experiences in a sports club is more than just about the game. We discuss the benefits of racket sports for young minds and bodies and the importance of kids exploring different sports to find their true passion. Diego shares the intricacies of selecting and hiring the right coaches and the significance of understanding client needs to foster a community atmosphere. Additionally, we reflect on the impact of introducing alcohol at an indoor paddle club and how increased competition has enhanced customer service and community engagement. Get ready for some light-hearted banter as we plan a friendly competition, looking forward to future episodes filled with more insights and rivalries.

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What does it take to master high-level padel coaching in a rapidly growing sports community? Join us as we sit down with one of the foremost padel coaches in the UAE who shares his transformative journey from Madrid to Dubai in 2020. Discover how he navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, made the tough decision to prioritize his family's future over competing in the World Padel Tour, and the profound professional and cultural benefits of relocating to Dubai. Listen to his firsthand experiences on the rapid rise of padel in the region and the crucial balance required between technique and strategic play.

Our guest reveals why understanding defense and minimizing errors trumps perfecting specific shots, offering valuable insights into the nuances of padel strategy. He emphasizes the significance of competing in high-pressure situations and adjusting gameplay based on the score, drawing parallels with tennis legends like Novak Djokovic. Get insider tips on how playing with better opponents can elevate your game and why consistent partnerships are vital for player development. This episode also highlights the joys and challenges of coaching in a burgeoning sports community, maintaining motivation, and structuring effective training programs.

From the intense training at Bruguera Academy in Barcelona to the emotional transition from aspiring athlete to dedicated coach, our guest's story is both inspiring and instructive. Hear about the social nature of tennis in Venezuela, the evolution of the padel tour, and the complex balance between professional passion and family life. Aspiring coaches will find invaluable advice on acquiring extensive knowledge, respecting players' time, and leveraging global coaching academies to enhance their skills. Tune in to explore the exciting landscape of competitive padel and the personal stories that shape it.

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What if transitioning from one sport to another could open doors to unimagined opportunities? Join us as we sit down with Aisha, the UAE's first ranked female padel player, who shares her remarkable journey from tennis to padel. Hear firsthand how Aisha discovered her passion for padel while studying in the UK and how this sport has since taken the UAE by storm. She opens up about the challenges and surprises of switching sports and the unique community spirit that paddle fosters, drawing many Emiratis into its fold.

In our deep dive, Aisha discusses the competitive nature of team sports, emphasizing the focus on personal growth and the importance of small, achievable goals over merely winning. Listen as she provides valuable insights into effective teamwork, supporting a partner on a bad day, and maintaining positive court dynamics. You'll also get an inside look at her thrilling experience competing in the World Padel Tour's main draw against top-ranked players, a journey filled with both educational and inspiring moments.

We wrap up with a discussion on the broader impact of paddle in the UAE. Explore how this sport is bridging cultural gaps and fostering an inclusive community. Hear Aisha's thoughts on the potential for UAE to shine on the Olympic stage and her aspirations for the future. This episode promises a blend of personal anecdotes, strategic insights, and a vision of a growing sport that’s uniting people across Dubai and beyond. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that captures the heart and spirit of padel.