The Average Not Average Podcast

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 the court. They also explore the sacrifices behind elite sport, the mental resilience required to stay at the top, and the lessons he’s learned throughout his career.

Chapter Timestamps:
00:41 Viktor Axelsen's Retirement Announcement
03:12 The Journey of Injuries and Challenges
11:01 Decision-Making and Support System
12:09 Future Plans and Partnerships
15:46 Reflections on Viktor’s Mindset & Career
21:17 Transitioning to Life After Badminton
23:37 Viktor’s Dedication To Excellence
24:56 Reflections on Early Career and Achievements
28:31 The Pursuit of Excellence in Training
33:47 The Role of Badminton Denmark in Viktor’s Journey
35:50 The Impact of NAS on Viktor’s Training
37:20 Building Relationships with Sponsors
39:18 The Importance of Friends and Family
46:01 Appreciation for Fans and Supporters

Follow us on social media for more content!
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:
- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ
- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg
- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/
- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q
- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

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 Introduction
05:23 Celebrating Social Media Nominations
09:57 The Impact of Social Media on Badminton
13:56 Running a Federation Account & Importance of Content Creation
23:12 Podcasting Goals & Showcasing the Athlete's Perspective
28:51 Challenges of Mixed Zone Interviews
30:33 The United Strand Challenge in Badminton
32:21 Balancing Fun and Seriousness in Content
36:12 Commentating in Badminton
46:47 The Journey of Podcasting and Content Creation
53:20 The Importance of Paid Opportunities in Media
57:35 Balancing Multiple Roles in Media
01:06:46 Growing a Team vs. Solo Work
01:11:14 The Business Side of Content Creation

Follow us on social media for more content!
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:
- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ
- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg
- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/
- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q
- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

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, making it a celebratory and engaging discussion.

Chapter Timestamps:
00:42 Celebrating One Year of Podcasting
02:35 How the Podcast Came to Life
05:46 Podcast Recommendations and Influences
10:49 Investing in Badminton Gear
11:57 Dealing with Annoying Opponents
14:16 Future Stars in Badminton
17:54 Why Viktor Chose Singles Over Doubles
18:55 Why Some Countries Are Successful Only in Certain Events
23:49 Evolution of Badminton Playing Styles
27:27 Media's Role in Badminton's Growth
34:33 What Separates Top Players
39:38 BWF's Role in Growing Badminton
40:45 Improving Spectator Experience
41:37 Photography in Badminton
48:05 Life After Competition
50:13 Viktor's New Collection
52:31 Books That Influence Mindset
56:48 Dream Doubles Partners
01:01:59 Avocado Oats Eating Session

Follow us on social media for more content!
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:
- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ
- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg
- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/
- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q
- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

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 opportunities for underprivileged children through badminton, showcasing success stories and the community's positive changes. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring photographers and the significance of pursuing one's passion.

Chapter Timestamps:
00:38 Introduction to Raphael Sachetat
04:20 The Journey into Badminton Photography
08:48 Establishing BadmintonPhoto as the official BWF Photo Agency
12:03 Understanding Editorial Photography in Badminton
16:54 The Evolution of Badminton Photography
18:56 Operational Insights and Team Dynamics
23:49 The Importance of Image Rights and Copyright
31:58 The Financial Aspects of Professional Photography
37:35 The Importance of Accuracy in Photography
38:52 What it’s Like to Shoot Professional Badminton Tournaments
42:58 Remembering a Dedicated Photographer
44:56 The BadmintonPhoto Team
48:06 The Role of Badzine in Badminton Journalism
51:06 Exploring New Images Photo Agency
55:03 Solibad: Changing Lives Through Badminton
1:05:33 How to Support Solibad and Its Mission
1:11:20 Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Follow us on social media for more content!- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverage

Keep in touch with CK & Viktor here:- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

You can also find our conversations on:- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

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” mentality.

Chapter Timestamps:
01:30 Why Viktor Wanted to Get Involved in The Podcast
03:15 Navigating Olympic Pressure
08:50 Expectations and Mental Preparations as a Top Athlete

Follow us on social media for more content!- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theaveragenotaverageKeep in touch with CK & Viktor here:- CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ- Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg- CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/- Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/You can also find our conversations on:- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q- Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw