Racquet Fuel

In this episode of the Racquet Fuel Podcast, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale have an engaging conversation with Mike Barrell about the evolution of racquet sports, particularly the impact of pickleball and padel on traditional tennis. Mike brings over 20 years of experience in the tennis industry, sharing his unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by these complementary sports.They discuss the economic considerations that are reshaping tennis facilities, the importance of fostering social engagement in sports, and how coaches play a crucial role in building a thriving tennis community. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on the need for tennis to innovate and adapt while staying true to its core identity.Episode Highlights:How the rise of pickleball and padel presents both opportunities and challenges for tennisEconomic viability and how clubs can balance costs with offering complementary racquet sportsWhy social engagement is key to retaining tennis players and how programming can support thisThe crucial role of coaches in connecting players and fostering community in tennisThe 'leaky bucket' problem in tennis retention and how to address itPickleball's success in accessibility and social play - what tennis can learnThe need for tennis to innovate and compete with pickleball's marketing successLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of the Racquet Fuel Podcast, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Butch Staples to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing the tennis industry today: staff retention and development. Butch brings decades of experience as a coach and leader, sharing his perspective on how we can better support and develop our teams to keep talented young pros in the industry.They explore the fears that hold many leaders back from investing in staff development and how shifting our mindset can create thriving work environments. Butch emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships and empowering staff—even if it means they eventually move on. The conversation highlights the difference between transaction-based management and relationship-based leadership, focusing on creating cultures where young pros want to stay, grow, and succeed.Episode Highlights:Why investing in your staff is the best decision, even if they might leave.How relationships, not money or perks, are the key to retaining talent.The role of leadership in empowering staff and creating a culture of growth.Why the only thing worse than training your staff and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.Practical steps for creating an environment where young pros want to build their careers.Resource mentioned:Primed to Perform (a book about building high performing cultures through motivation)Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In Part 2 of our Hiring series, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Michael DiRaimondo on the Racquet Fuel Podcast to tackle the complexities of hiring international tennis professionals. Michael, a Certified Tennis Pro, Club Owner, and Immigration Lawyer, brings his deep expertise to the conversation. They discuss the challenges of hiring international applicants, who are often highly desired and needed in the industry, yet face a difficult and expensive immigration process.If you're interested in navigating alternative visa statuses and bringing talented international pros to your club, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Episode Highlights:Pain points managers and club owners have for hiring pros - local and InternationalDifferent types of visas for foreigners A pathway to permanent residency for a sports professionalPain points due to congressional changesPowerful advice for college students looking for permanent residencyHow to find the right Immigration lawyerLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of the Racquet Fuel Podcast, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale discuss the similarities and differences between golf and tennis, particularly in terms of the work realities of golf pros and tennis pros. They are joined by Anthony Vitale: Director and Coach of Athlete Development for the PGA of America. He shares his background and role at the PGA before they discuss the difference between touring pros and teaching pros, the changing workweek culture in golf, the certification process for becoming a PGA member, and the compensation model for golf professionals. They also explore the importance of social connections and human relationships in both golf and tennis.Episode Highlights:How we can develop our athletes through supporting our coachesWhat shift has the PGA made for a better work/life balance for prosComparing the career pathway for Golf Pros and Tennis ProsHow does the golf compensation model work, and what is the structure of itWhen you emphasize HUMAN CONNECTION, what happens?Upcoming event:November 4th at 7pm EDT Virtual Director of Racquet Sports Club: Part of the event is free-form networking with other industry professionals, and the other part is an educational discussion with guest speaker, Lew Sherr. Sign up HERE to receive login instructionsLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, host Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Dave Konecky, Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at the USTA, to explore the challenges and emerging trends in hiring leadership roles within the tennis industry. Together, they explore the industry's talent shortage, the significance of cultural fit, and the power of behavioral questions during interviews. They also discuss best practices for onboarding new hires and clarify the distinction between W2 employees and independent contractors (1099). Throughout the conversation, Dave emphasizes trusting your instincts, the value of virtual interviews, and assessing candidates on the court.Episode Highlights:Strategies for addressing the talent shortage in the tennis industry and fostering growth within your current team.Defining cultural fit and how to find it in potential hires.Behavioral interview questions that help predict future performance.The critical role of onboarding after a new hire.Navigating the difficult process of letting an employee go.Benefits of hiring tennis pros as W2 employees versus independent contractors.Resources noted in conversation:Tim Elmore: Generational Divides ONE and TWOBook: A New Kind of Diversity by Tim ElmoreUpcoming event:November 4th at 7pm EDT Virtual Director of Racquet Sports Club: Part of the event is free-form networking with other industry professionals, and the other part is an educational discussion with guest speaker, Lew Sherr. Sign up HERE to receive login instructionsLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale interview Jo Wallen, the General Manager of the National Campus at USTA, about her journey to leadership. They discuss the importance of learning from others and the path to leadership. Jo shares her story of starting in tennis at a young age, transitioning from playing on the Pro Tour to coaching and club management, and eventually landing her current role at USTA. They also discuss the challenges of transitioning from an individual sport to a team environment and the importance of humility and surrounding oneself with a strong team. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning, problem-solving skills, and the ability to navigate complex organizations.Episode HighlightsWhy continuous learning is essential for growth and success in leadership rolesWhat you need when transitioning from an individual sport to a team environment How problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complex organizations are crucial for effective leadershipWhat listening to others and valuing their opinions can do to an organizationHow to measure success in leadershipLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale discuss the critical role of communication in leadership. They share the alarming statistics regarding employee understanding of expectations and the importance of clarity and empowerment in communication. The conversation covers handling sensitive topics, the significance of written communication, effective meeting strategies, and the necessity of clear task deadlines. They emphasize the need for transparency and the balance between personal and professional communication, ultimately highlighting that effective communication is essential for successful leadership. "Coasting" is not an option in leadership and life happens, which adds to the challenge.Episode highlights:Why a leader's role in communication is crucial to company and team successHow clarity in roles and responsibilities empowers employeesWho should prioritize self-care and whyWhat it means to adapt as a leader in racquetsWhen over-communication can be beneficial in leadershipLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this re-run episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale continue their conversation with Dr. Tim Elmore; a thought leader, author, and researcher, founder of the non-profit Growing Leaders. Elmore shares about the social media battle between generations that brought him to write his newest book, “A New Kind of Diversity.” Simon and Kim provide Tim with some racquets-industry challenges regarding age diversity in the workplace, and Tim gives tangible tools and tactics we can all use to inspire team cultures and motivate workers from all generations. The episode wraps up a two-part series that offers insights for directors and managers faced with the need to bridge the gap between generations.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original air date: June 7, 2023)

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Dr. Tim Elmore: a thought leader, author, and founder of the non-profit, Growing Leaders. Elmore shares about the social media battle between generations that brought him to write his newest book, “A New Kind of Diversity." He discusses the generational gap of “kids these days” and where it really started, and how we need to be working together to collaborate instead of collide. Further, Elmore gives advice on how we, as leaders, can be better and bridging the gap by following the “A LEG we need to stand on” acronym. The episode kicks off a two-part series on developing leaders in the racquets industry and offers insights for directors and managers seeking to bridge the gap between generations.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original Air Date: May 31st, 2023)

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, which originally aired July 21st, 2023 - hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale continue the conversation with Chris Gale for the second part of the Gale brothers story. They discuss various broad topics such Prince Woodie, Ash Barty's cricket game and first jobs. They delve into the definition of leadership and the responsibilities that come with it, highlighting the importance of work-life balance. The conversation explores the differences between being a professional player and being a leader, strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, and the future of racquet sports and the role of a Director of Racquets. The secret sauce to success is revealed, and the episode concludes with a reflection on the blending of business and personal life in the tennis world.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original air date July 21st, 2023)

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, which originally aired July 14th, 2023, hosts Kim Bastable speaks with brothers Simon and Chris Gale. Originally from Perth, Australia they both have a unique pathway to becoming a Director of Racquet Sports: Chris at the River Oaks Country Club and Simon at the USTA National Campus. They share their “sliding door moment” that introduced them to having a career in tennis, the changes they’ve seen in the industry, and the power of mentorship. The episode kicks off a two-part series on developing leaders in the racquets industry and offers insights for directors and managers seeking to find a pathway to their career.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original air date: July 14th, 2023)

In this episode, Kim Bastable re-interviews Alejandra Suarez, one of the owners of North Texas Racquet Club, to discuss the leadership successes and challenges they have faced in their first summer of operation. They cover topics such as guided open play, organizing events, dealing with weather challenges, and staffing issues. Alejandra shares insights on how they have adapted and learned from these experiences, emphasizing the importance of research, teamwork, and member engagement. The conversation provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs in the racquet sports industry.Episode Highlights:What guided open play has done to provide a fun and competitive experience for players of all levels.Why researching local events and networking with other businesses in the area can help attract more customers How to be proactive when dealing with weather challenges What to do about finding and retaining front desk administrative staff when turnover is high - everywhereWhy growth and success in the racquet sports industry requires ongoing adaptation, teamwork, and a focus on member satisfactionLearn more about North Texas Racquet Club: A Triple Play Club (Tennis, Pickleball, Padel) Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Joe Curto, the owner of Yonkers Tennis Center in Westchester County, New York. Curto speaks about the highs and lows of of the last 37 years of Club ownership, providing insights into the past and present journey into the role, transitioning from the day-to-day to delegation, what it takes to be a good leader, the people who make the difference, and the importance of continuous growth. Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original air date: Sept 13, 2023. Re-aired July 17, 2024)

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Jason Allen. He is the Program Director for the USTA’s  exciting new two year university like apprenticeship program, aimed at cultivating both on-court and off-court management skills essential for a thriving career in the racquet sports industry. This innovative program, led by Simon and Jason, offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.They discuss the program's evolution in response to the popularity of new racquet sports like pickleball and padel, questioning whether traditional tennis backgrounds are imperative for leadership roles in these emerging disciplines. Catering to professionals at various career stages and aspirations, they share how this is a structured - yet flexible - apprenticeship. Wonder who the ideal candidate for this program is? You’ll find out from them as well! This episode also covers the program's financial incentives, including compensation details and career progression pathways post-apprenticeship. The USTA believes this program's role is powerful in fostering a new generation of adaptable and visionary racquet sports leaders.Tune in to discover how this apprenticeship program is shaping the future of racquet sports management, blending academic rigor with real-world application to prepare leaders who will drive innovation and inclusivity across diverse sporting communities.Applications are now open and you can learn more.Still have questions? Email rsma@usta.com Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Craig Morris, the USTA's Chief Executive for Community Tennis. Morris provides updates and insights into the USTA's plans and initiatives for addressing challenges in the recruitment and hiring of leaders in the racquets industry. He also shares his personal journey from tennis player to coach and leadership development and offers mentorship advice for aspiring industry leaders. Kim and Simon discuss Morris's strategies for developing leadership competencies, career opportunities for young tennis professionals, growth and retention strategies for the sport, and the USTA's role in complementary sports. Morris highlights the shortage of coaches in the tennis industry and the potential industry leaders who can help fill that gap, while discussing the USTA's support for local game development.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!(Original air date: May 17, 2023. Re-aired June 12, 2024)

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale engage in conversation with veteran industry leader Chuck Gill. Together they explore how Chuck intentionally navigated his career, setting personal goals in his learning and development to enable him to reach career longevity and success in all of his roles. As someone who has worked as a Director in many types of racquets facilities, Chuck gives some insights into the nuances of leadership in the profession, offering valuable advice on marketing strategies and inclusive practices. But that’s not all – he also shares 3 insightful interview questions you MUST ask in an interview! Future leaders need to listen!More episode highlights:How to build relationships and be a people person in the tennis industryWhat you can do to plan your career pathWhy being intentional developing business skills and understanding the industry early can lead to future successWhat it means to embrace challenges When to rely on HR for helpHow to support and empower your teamResources mentioned in this episode:Start with Why - How Great Leaders Inspire Action by Simon Sinek Loonshots: How to Nurture the Crazy Ideas That Win Wars, Cure Diseases, and Transform Industries by Safi BachallSEASON 4 SURVEYLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

Tracy Almeda-Singian, a former professional tennis player, is now the Senior Director of Sports Marketing at St Jude Children's Research Hospital. She shares her pivotal story about transitioning from a Head Professional and Director of Events at a tennis club to jumping into the corporate world of marketing. While in various roles she has learned many lessons about personal branding, social media, and networking. So why did she chose to leave tennis and how is she continuing to give back? You'll want to tune into this episode to find out.More Episode HighlightsHow to live your find passion in your work lifeThe pivotal moment she knew it was time to take a riskWhy collaboration and teamwork is essential in any role you're inWhen to use social media to build your brand as a teaching proHow networking is crucial for career growth in the tennis industryWhy learning never stops, especially as it relates to marketing trendsHow to embrace your identity beyond tennis and find fulfillment in other areas of lifeLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

Scott McCullough, the accomplished CEO of Cliff Drysdale and Peter Burwash International, joins hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale to explore the complexities of leadership within the racquets industry. With a global portfolio of over 70 clubs and resort facilities, Scott goes into the importance of understanding the unique needs of each club and embracing technology for operational efficiency. The conversation hits on the significance of empowering leaders, fostering a culture of opportunity, and prioritizing ongoing education and internal mobility. Through Scott's insights in this conversation, you will gain valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities inherent in leading a large management company. Join Scott, Kim, and Simon as they unravel the intricacies of racquets industry leadership in this insightful episode of Racquet Fuel.Episode Highlights:Leadership roles in the tennis industryManaging many clubs with diverse goals and operationFostering a culture of sharing and alignment within a global organization Prioritizing employee care, client satisfaction, and business growthEducation and networking with in an organizationRetaining and growing tennis and pickleball professionalsLeadership and tech adoption in the sports industryLooking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

There is high demand for teaching professionals in the industry, but is the current tennis and racquets teaching profession appealing for the next generation of workers??  It doesn’t appear to be.From research, we know that the current 6 OR 7 DAY WORK WEEK that is industry norm is the number 1 reason that the industry has trouble retaining and attracting talent. For this reason, we are revisiting the discussion of the 5-day work week, that was first introduced by Simon and Kim in Episode 1 of Season 1. The USTA National Campus staff has now experienced 18 months with a 5-day workweek, so Simon is able to share real data from the transition he instigated. To discuss their experiences after the transition, campus pros Dishon Deering and Bailey Robinson join the podcast and share about their new life balance from the point of view of a coach. If you're in the position of hiring staff or thinking through your own next position, it’s important to know the science behind “best work performance” and what elements are necessary to keep a person thriving and engaged in their workplace.Episode HighlightsThe majority of tennis industry professionals work six to seven days a week, leading to burnout and a lack of work-life balance.Implementing a five-day work week can improve the well-being and job satisfaction of pros.Selling oneself and effectively managing schedules are important skills for professionals to have to both build a book of business and to ensure a successful transition to a shorter work week.Cultural differences play a role in work-life balance, with some countries prioritizing rest and recovery.Offering a more sustainable work schedule can attract and retain talent in the tennis industry.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

Emma Wells, a successful coach, leader, business owner, and educator from the UK, shares her journey and experiences in the tennis industry. She discusses her early experiences in coaching and how she fell in love with tennis at a young age. On this podcast episode, she shares how she built her own successful business by focusing on branding and creating a unique customer experience wile also creating a positive team culture. Together with Kim Bastable and Simon Gale, Emma discusses the challenges of hiring in the UK due to Brexit and the impact of COVID-19 on the workforce. Connect with Emma Wells on LinkedInTennis in Wimbledon Park and RoehamptonEpisode HighlightsBuilding a strong brand and creating a unique customer experience are essential for success in the tennis industry.Managing people and holding them accountable is crucial for maintaining a positive team culture and driving the business forward.The impact of Brexit and COVID-19 has presented challenges in hiring and maintaining a workforce.Inspiring women and promoting female leadership in tennis is important for creating a more diverse and inclusive industry.Constantly absorbing experiences and learning is key to personal and professional growth in the tennis industry.Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!