EP #438 - Beni Huggel: Wie ein Athlete Mindset im Geschäftsleben nützlich ist
Sep 18, 2024
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Beni Huggel is the founder of the Athlete's Network, dedicated to helping athletes transition into post-sport careers. He discusses the identity crisis athletes face after retiring and how companies increasingly seek former pros for their unique skill sets. The conversation highlights the athlete mindset—emphasizing resilience, discipline, and teamwork—and its applicability in business. Beni shares insights on building a two-sided platform that connects athletes with companies, showcasing the importance of collaboration and community in the Swiss sports landscape.
Beni Huggel emphasizes that the Athlete's Mindset—discipline, focus, resilience—transfers effectively to the business world, making former athletes valuable hires.
The Athlete's Network operates as a two-sided platform, connecting elite athletes with companies seeking their unique skills and experiences for post-sport careers.
Deep dives
Google for Startups Cloud Program
Google offers a program designed specifically for startups, which includes access to experts, technical training, and business support. The program covers up to $200,000 of Google Cloud costs for two years, boosting startups' growth and operational efficiency. Additionally, for AI startups, the coverage can be as high as $350,000, significantly enhancing their ability to innovate and scale. This initiative emphasizes the importance of reducing financial barriers for emerging companies, allowing them to focus on developing their products and services.
The Importance of Team Dynamics
Strong team dynamics are essential for success in any venture, as highlighted in discussions around effective collaboration and communication. A great team can leverage diverse skills and perspectives to tackle challenges and drive innovation forward. It's emphasized that aligning on goals and maintaining positive relationships can foster a productive working environment. This collaboration enables individuals to bring their best selves to the table, fueling the growth of the organization as a whole.
Future Planning and Adaptability
Planning for the future while remaining adaptable is crucial for navigating the ever-changing business landscape. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to stay open to opportunities and challenges, allowing them to pivot their strategies as needed. It's important to regularly assess market trends and responses to ensure that a business remains relevant. Embracing change rather than resisting it can lead to new avenues for success and resilience against potential setbacks.
The Role of Community in Growth
Building a supportive community around a business can significantly enhance its growth trajectory. Engaging with like-minded individuals and organizations creates opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The conversation highlights the value of being part of a broader ecosystem that fosters innovation and support for startups. By actively participating in a community, entrepreneurs can leverage collective resources and navigate challenges more effectively.
20:00 - Das two-sided Platform Model des Athletes Network
32:36 - Was bringt die Zukunft für das Athletes Network
Über Beni Huggel:
Benni Huggel ist Gründer und Head of Sales bei der Athlete's Network, einer Organisation, die Athleten beim Übergang in ihre Nachsportkarriere unterstützt. Der ehemalige Profifussballer spielte für den FC Basel und die Schweizer Nationalmannschaft, für die er über 40 Länderspiele absolvierte. Nach seinem Rücktritt gründete er die Athlete's Network, um Sportler dabei zu unterstützen, ihre Fähigkeiten und Erfahrungen in die Arbeitswelt einzubringen.
Die Idee für das Athlete’s Network kam Beni auf einer Autofahrt im November 2019. Am nächsten Tag schrieb er einen LinkedIn Post darüber und erhielt nicht nur enormen Zuspruch, sondern fand auch seine späteren Mitgründer über diesen Weg.
Das Athlete’s Network unterstützt ehemalige Spitzensportler:innen und -sportler beim Einstieg in die Arbeitswelt nach der Sportkarriere. Mit über 2500 Athletinnen und Athleten und über 100 Partnerfirmen funktioniert das Athlete’s Netzwerk wie eine two-sided Plattform, bei der die Partnerfirmen explizit nach Spitzensportlern, weil sie davon überzogen sind, dass diese Fähigkeiten mitbringen, die man nur im Spitzensport lernt. Das sogenannte Athlete’s Mindset - Disziplin, Fokus, Ausdauer, Resilienz - ist für diese Firmen Grund genug, um über fehlende Arbeitserfahrung hinwegzusehen.