The Average Not Average Podcast
The Average Not Average Podcast is hosted by two-time Olympic badminton champion Viktor Axelsen and Dr. Chun Keat Yew, also known as CK Yew. They share their passion for badminton through insightful discussions and honest opinions. The show also explores the business side of the sport, media influence, family life, tips for improving your game, and equipment recommendations. Listeners get engaging conversations aimed at players and fans alike.
Episoder
Ep 42: The Physics of Badminton, Shuttlecock Science, Left-Hander Advantage, Smashing Mechanics
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew sits down with Professor Eric Collet - a physicist and head of the Department of Materials and Light at the University of Rennes, known for his incredible super slow-motion footage of badminton shuttlecocks in flight. We get nerdy and break down the real physics behind the sport: why left-handers have a better slice shot, the Magnus effect
Ep 41: The Agents Behind India's Biggest Sporting Stars, Sponsorship Deals, Athlete Personal Branding
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Ramakrishnan R (Ram) and Rakesh Haridas from Baseline Ventures - the agency behind some of the biggest deals in Indian badminton, representing athletes across 13 sports including PV Sindhu, Chirag Shetty, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, and HS Prannoy. We dig into their journey to the top of athlete representation
Ep 40: Linus Tech Tips X Smash Champs: The Challenges Of Being A Badminton Club Owner
*Please note: Linus' video often freezes throughout the episode due to connection issues. We apologise for the technical difficulties and appreciate your understanding!In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Linus Sebastian — founder of Linus Tech Tips and Linus Media Group — to talk badminton and business.Linus and his wife Yvonne opened Sma
EXCLUSIVE: How Alex Lanier Became BWF World Champion, Preparations, Coach-Athlete Relationship, Mindset & Resilience
*A quick heads up! Alex and Kestutis’s connection occasionally breaks up throughout the episode, so you may see them come in and out of the frame at certain times. We apologise for the technical issue and appreciate your understanding!In this exclusive episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, we’re joined by recent 2026 BWF World Champion of men’s singles, Alex Lanier, and his coach Kestutis Na
Ep 38: How To Build & Scale A Successful Badminton Club, Leadership, Community, Business Lessons
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Ben Lee - former Olympian, 9-time US National Champion, founder of Synergy Badminton Academy, and one of the most influential figures in American badminton.Together, they explore Ben's journey through more than four decades in the sport, from competing at the Olympic Games to building one of North Ameri
Ep 37: The Impact Of Mental Health On Elite Performance, Cultural Differences, Parenting, Pressure, Resilience
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Sports Psychologist, Muhammad Deen, who shares insights on high performance psychology, mental resilience, and applying sports psychology principles to everyday life and leadership. They discuss mental resilience, cultural differences, and practical strategies for managing pressure, developing self-awarenes
Ep 36: Selena Piek On Building A Career Beyond Elite Sport, Olympics, Commentating, Negotiation, Finances
*A quick heads up! From around 55:00 onwards, Selena's audio occasionally falls out of sync with the video. We apologise for the technical issue and appreciate your understanding!In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew sits down with three-time Olympian, Selena Piek. Selena shares her journey of being an elite badminton player to being recently retired from elite sport. Disc
Ep 35: Inside Viktor’s Performance Team, Nutrition, Conditioning, Longevity, Chasing Excellence
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, Viktor Axelsen and CK Yew are joined by Sean Casey - registered dietitian, physical preparation coach, proactive health specialist, and someone who has played a huge role throughout Viktor’s career over many years working together at the highest level of sport.Together, they dive into performance optimisation, recovery, nutrition, injury preventi
Ep 34: Tanisha Crasto On Representing India At The Olympics, Moving Countries, Alopecia, Mental Challenges Of Sport
In this episode, Tanisha Crasto shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Dubai to becoming an Olympic badminton player for India. She discusses the challenges of moving countries, the mental resilience required at the highest level, and her experiences on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Tanisha shares her inspiring journey through challenges like alopecia, injuries and family heal
Ep 33: The Hidden Pressure Behind Professional BWF Tournaments, Event Operations, Costs & Challenges
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, Viktor Axelsen and CK Yew sit down with Tamara Geeraerts, Tournament Director of the Yonex German Open, to explore what really goes on behind the scenes of a professional BWF World Tour tournament.From sponsorships, logistics, volunteers and broadcast production, to the pressure of the tournament week itself, Tamara shares the realities of organi
Ep 32: Life After Retirement, CK’s Health Scare, Importance Of Recovery & Health Management
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, hosts CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen catch up on what they’ve been up to, including a health update from CK, and what Viktor’s life looks like after retiring from international badminton. They discuss the transition out of elite sport, the importance of recovery and health management, and future plans.**Chapter Timestamps:**00:45 Introduction 01:38 CK
Ep 31: How Hndrd Is Challenging Big Badminton Brands, Localisation Strategies, Role Of Retailers
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew interviews Manak Kapoor, co-founder of Hndrd, a rapidly growing badminton brand. They discuss the intricacies of building a global sports brand, challenges in distribution, the importance of retailers, localisation strategies, and the future of badminton industry dynamics.Chapter Timestamps:00:47 Introduction to Manak Kapoor and Hndrd02:50
EXCLUSIVE: Viktor Axelsen Retirement Announcement
Viktor Axelsen opens up about his journey through injuries, his decision to step away from professional badminton, and what lies ahead in the next chapter of his life. This is a heartfelt and reflective conversation between CK Yew and Viktor, where Viktor expresses deep gratitude for the journey - from the people who supported him along the way to the experiences that shaped him both on and off th
Ep 29: How Social Media Is Changing Badminton, Importance Of Athlete Branding & BEC Media Awards
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew, Viktor Axelsen, and guest Thomas Fuchs explore the evolving landscape of badminton media, content creation, and strategies to grow the sport's profile globally. They also share insights on balancing professionalism with authenticity, managing teams, and the importance of having a presence on social media.Chapter Timestamps:00:36 Intro
Ep 28: 1 Year Anniversary Q&A, Importance Of Media In Sport, Life After Badminton, Equipment Advice
In this one-year anniversary episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, hosts CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen reflect on their journey and answer listener questions. They discuss the evolution of badminton, the importance of media in promoting the sport, and their personal experiences with training and competition. The episode also touches on fun topics, including future plans and humorous anecdotes, m
Ep 27: The Founder Of BWF’s Official Photo Agency, Importance Of Copyright, Creating Purpose & Impact In The World
In this episode, CK Yew interviews Raphael Sachetat, the founder of Badminton Photo and Solibad, discussing his journey from a journalist to a leading figure in badminton photography. Raphael shares insights into the evolution of badminton photography, the operational dynamics of his agency, and the importance of copyright in the industry. He also highlights the impact of Solibad in providing oppo
Ep 26 Highlight: How Viktor Axelsen Handles Pressure, Expectations & Mental Preparations As A Two-Time Olympic Champion
In this featured segment from Episode 26 of the Average Not Average Podcast, guest Thinaah Muralitharan asks Viktor Axelsen some insightful questions about managing expectations and everything that goes into competing at the highest level. Viktor breaks down how he manages pressure at the Olympic Games as a two-time Olympic Champion and shares detailed insight into his “No Stones Unturned” mentali
Ep 26: The Rise Of Thinaah Muralitharan, Personal Branding In Sport, Importance Of Family Support, Pressure & Mental Preparations
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Malaysian badminton superstar Thinaah Muralitharan. They discuss her journey to becoming a top-ranked player, the pressures of being a role model, and the importance of family support in her career. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being an elite athlete, the significance of person
Ep 25: How To Build The UK’s Biggest Badminton Retailer, Balancing Family & Business, Unique Selling Points, Importance Of Grassroots Support
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen chat with YC Lim and his son Yee Wai Lim about the evolution of YC Sports from a small badminton retailer to a major market player. They discuss balancing family dynamics in business, challenges as the official retailer of the Yonex All England, and the importance of personal connections with customers. The episode also
Ep 24: Peter Gade On What It Takes To Be The World’s Best, Coaching Viktor Axelsen, The Growing Gap Between Asia & Europe & Avocado
In this episode, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen host badminton legend Peter Gade. They discuss the pressures and responsibilities of being an icon in the sport, their early experiences in Malaysia, and the transition from player to coach. The conversation delves into the mental challenges faced during competitive matches, the impact of crowd dynamics, and their ventures outside of badminton. They also
Ep 23: CEO Of The Biggest Shuttlecock Brand, Viktor’s First Professional Contract, The Next Generation Of Shuttlecock Production, The Importance of Shuttlecock Sustainability
In this episode, CK Yew interviews Rasmus Skousen, CEO of RSL Europe, discussing the evolution of badminton, the impact of market dynamics on shuttlecock production, and the challenges of sustainability in the industry. Rasmus shares insights on Viktor Axelsen's early career, the transition from retail to RSL, and the future of badminton equipment amidst changing consumer expectations and glob
Ep 22: The Best Of The Average Not Average Podcast 2025 - Standout Conversations & Funniest Moments
This highlights episode brings together the best moments from The Average Not Average Podcast in 2025. Each segment is taken from a different episode, capturing standout conversations, reflections, and lighter moments from throughout the year with CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen.Watch all previous episodes here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d41e211446b44f9bOur 2025 Guest List
Ep 21: Viktor Axelsen’s Toughest Battle – Back Injury Updates, Tournament Plans, Crossing Paths With Stephen Curry, The Rise Of Pickleball & Padel
In this episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen talk about Viktor’s current back injury and the difficulties he’s facing as he works through recovery. Viktor shares his thoughts on the rest of his year, and they reflect on the originally scheduled guest, Kestutis Navickas. They also chat about the growth of pickleball and padel, Viktor crossing paths with Stephen Curr
EP20: Kestutis Navickas - Why French Badminton Is Becoming Stronger, Evolution Of Elite Badminton, Mental Toughness & Fashion In Athletes
In this podcast episode, Kestutis Navickas, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discussed the evolution of badminton, the importance of recovery, and the intersection of fashion and sports, highlighting the need for athletes to present themselves professionally, as fashion can enhance an athlete's public image. Both Viktor and Kestutis emphasise the importance of personal growth, teamwork, and the futur
Ep 19: Alex Lanier - Expectations Are Different As I’m Top-10 In The World, Chess, Golf and Bananas
In this episode of the Average Not Average podcast, host CK Yew interviews professional badminton player Alex Lanier. They discuss Alex's recent holiday, his passion for golf, and his competitive spirit, especially in relation to his brother Theo. Alex shares insights into his daily routine as a professional badminton athlete, the pressures of being in the top 10 in the world, and the dynamics
Ep 18: Viktor Axelsen - I Have No Problems With Shi Yu Qi & I Want To Win So Bad
This episode 18 of the Average on Average podcast, Viktor Axelsen discusses his recent experiences at the Denmark Open and his preparations for the French Open. He reflects on the emotional challenges of returning to competitive badminton after a long hiatus, the controversies surrounding his serving techniques, especially in the match again Shi Yu Qi and the balance between his professional commi
Ep 17: Ben Beckman - Elite Player to Online Creator to Badminton Commentator - The Love Story
In this episode of the Average on Average podcast, CK Yew and guest Ben Beckman discuss the innovative BXL badminton tournament, exploring its unique format, the impact of timed matches on players, and the role of umpires. Ben shares his personal connections to Indonesia and his journey into commentary, highlighting the importance of fan engagement and the future of badminton with new formats and
Ep 16 Dr David Evans - BWF World Tour Umpire - The Challenge Of Being An Umpire And The Hardest Decision I Had To Make
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew, Viktor Axelsen, and David Evans delve into the intricacies of badminton umpiring. They discuss the dynamics between players and umpires, the challenges faced in making split-second decisions, and the potential for technology like VAR to enhance the sport. David shares insights into the rigorous journey to becoming a BWF umpire, the import
Ep 15: Ayush Shetty - India’s BWF WorldTour Winner at ONLY 20 years old
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew, Viktor Axelsen, and Ayush Shetty discuss their training routines, daily lives, and experiences in the world of badminton. They delve into the logistics of training together, the importance of consistency, and the dynamics of learning from each other. The conversation also touches on nutrition, recovery strategies, and the challenges faced
Ep 14: The state of Malaysian Badminton & Why Badminton Media Needs To Educate Its Fans
Ahmed Shahrazad Sani is an award-winning sports journalist from Malaysia, especially with his live coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics. We delve into the state of badminton in Malaysia, as well as the character shown by players, media and everything in between in the world of badminton! Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/sho
Ep 13: Balancing Identity and Injury in Sports - Why Viktor Axelsen can't play the 2025 World Champs
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discuss Viktor's rehabilitation journey after injury, the mental challenges of managing identity while not competing, and the decision-making process regarding his participation in the upcoming 2025 BWF World Championships. They also delve into new badminton rules, the launch of Viktor's new racket line, and the
Ep 12: Cristian Luque Manjon - Challenges of working with THE BEST badminton team on the planet and the importance of individualised training
In this episode of the Average Not Average podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen engage in a deep conversation with Christian Luque Manjon about his journey in badminton coaching, particularly his work with the Chinese National Team and his transition to consulting. They discuss the importance of individualised training, data-driven approaches, and the challenges of managing injuries in elite sports.
Ep 11: Season 1 Halftime Recap, An Se Young’s Contract Negotiations, Growth of Para Badminton
In this episode, Viktor Axelsen and CK Yew discuss various topics including the upcoming VA collection launch, CK's new marketing company - El Plan Studios, the growth of para badminton, and reflections on past matches. They also explore the importance of mental strategies in badminton, contract negotiations, and methods to enhance the fan experience. The conversation highlights personal growth, i
Ep10: Chirag Shetty - The Status of Indian Badminton, Funny Satwik Stories & Ladies vs Mens, 2 vs 1
We finally have Indian badminton superstar, Chirag Shetty, on The Average Not Average Podcast! Alongside Viktor Axelsen, CK discusses the growth, status and impact that badminton is having on India. Chirag also shares some funny stories of his doubles partner, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy as well as his opinion on whether Viktor could win a 2 vs 1 match against, women's doubles Olympic medalists, C
How To Build An Empire - The Delicate Balance Of Trust, Hard Work, Commitment And Luck
We finally have a full episode guest! We welcome Henrik Axelsen, Viktor Axelsen's manager and father, to the podcast to discuss and break down the processes they have gone through to build the empire they have today. TRUST was a key word in this episode of the podcast, as was understanding the need to outsource and have experts around you, in addition to the hard work, commitment, and luck tha
Ep 8: Most Underrated Skill - The Mental Game, Who To Trust, Struggles & How To Become Great At It
CK and Viktor discuss the MOST Underrated skill that is crucial to ensure success in everything - the mental side of things. They discuss what they have experienced in both the sporting world as well as the business world alongside personal relationships too. Managing the mental load is crucial to success and what sacrifices are required too. Follow in on the conversation and follow on social medi
Ep 7: Building businesses, Spending Money to Make Money & How CK Got Started In Media
We finally have our first guest on the podcast! CK and Viktor Axelsen discuss the businesses in which they are involved, both within and outside the world of badminton, as well as how CK entered the world of media within badminton with some key takeaways. Both CK and Viktor also discuss how they are building their brands and how important it is to continuously invest in their own brands and the op
Ep 6: Oatmeal Crimes & Rehab Times: CK & Viktor’s First Post-Surgery Update
CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discuss Oatmeal Crimes & Rehab Times. Viktor dives deep into his injury and how he is doing post-surgery before both the boys move on to discuss some of their dietary choices, which involves some shocked (Pikachu) faces. This is also the first episode of The Average Not Average Podcast that went fully remote, as neither CK nor Viktor was travelling to tournaments at t
Ep 5: CK & Viktor's Lives Off Court: From their love of Coffee to their families as their support system
Ep 5: CK and Viktor let loose in this episode and discuss lots of family life, their love of coffee and also how their families support them as they continue with their careers. This episode is our personal favourite thus far. Enjoy :)Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApp
Ep 4: Life On The Road At Tournaments & Introduction To Badminton Media
Ep 4: Life On The Road At Tournaments & Introduction To Badminton MediaCK and Viktor dive into the fourth episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, discussing their life on the road while on tour. Viktor discusses his playing and training requirements, and CK discusses his work within badminton media. This one is interesting 👌.Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more
Ep 3: Taking Charge of Training = Taking Charge of Your Life
Episode 3: Taking charge of training = Taking charge of your lifeCK and Viktor dive into the third episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, discussing how having a structured training regime, working with his father-in-law as one of his coaches, moving countries and training base to Dubai and the standards Viktor has for himself and also his fellow training partners.Follow in on the conversatio
Ep 2: Tournaments are Relentless, Committed Players and Getting Fined
Episode 2: Tournaments are Relentless, Committed Players and Getting FinedCK and Viktor dive into the second episode of The Average Not Average Podcast, discussing BWF's tournament structure, the challenges of competing in so many tournaments, the logistics of it, fines, injuries and the proposed 3 by 15 scoring system. Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spo
Ep 1: Sport is a business, BWF's challenges and new equipment.
CK and Viktor dive straight into this first-ever episode of The Average Not Average Podcast. They introduce Viktor's new equipment series and discuss BWF's challenges as a sporting regulatory body that needs to do business and potential solutions.The pair also discuss the importance of branding and how much impact it delivers over an extended period.Follow in on the conversation and follow on soci
Ep 0 - How it all started?
CK and Viktor dive behind the scenes on how The Average Not Average Podcast came to life. Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenota
Hey, it's CK!
CK Yew introduces himself as the second host of The Average Not Average Podcast.In the full episodes, he will be sharing his experience, insights and honest opinions, inside and outside of the badminton world.Listen in and join in on 1st of March 2025, when the first full episode will be released!
Hi, it's Viktor!
Viktor Axelsen introduces himself as the host of The Average Not Average Podcast.In the full episodes, he will be sharing his experience, insights and honest opinions, inside and outside of the badminton world.Listen in and join in on 1st of March 2025, when the first full episode will be released!
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