Pre-Zero Sports Talk
Welcome to Pre-Zero Sports Talk, where sports, leadership, community, and progress intersect. Hosted by Sid Bensalah, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the sports industry, this podcast isn’t about preaching or claiming to have all the answers. Instead, it’s a platform for honest, thought-provoking conversations exploring how to create positive, actionable change in and through sports.
Born from a passion for progress, Pre-Zero Sports Talk explores the pressing topics shaping our world today—leadership, innovation, community impact, performance and well-being, regenerative agriculture, governance, and more. Each episode goes beyond the surface, engaging with trailblazers, changemakers, and thought leaders to uncover solutions and inspire new perspectives.
This is a space for real conversations with real people about real issues—conversations that challenge norms, break barriers, and spark action. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, industry leader, or someone seeking to make a difference, there’s a seat at the table for you.
Subscribe now to join a movement that informs, entertains, and empowers. Together, let’s redefine the role of sports in building a cleaner, safer, and more connected world—one episode at a time.
Pre-Zero Sports Talk
Faith, Love, and Competitive Greatness - The John Vallely Story
In this episode, our host, Sid Bensalah, had the privilege of speaking with John Vallely, a former UCLA basketball star, and Paul Weissenstein, co-author of The Pyramid Principle, published by SpiritMedia.US. John’s story is not just about sports; it’s about resilience, love, and finding purpose through life’s trials. From playing under legendary coach John Wooden to overcoming personal challenges, John’s journey offers us valuable lessons.
John shares how Coach Wooden's "Pyramid of Success" shaped his championship wins and approach to life’s most challenging moments. With Paul’s insights on writing the book, they reveal a story rich in family, leadership, and personal growth.
Key discussion points include:
- Lessons from working at his father's boat rental business that shaped John's discipline and character.
- Playing for Coach Wooden and being part of the historic UCLA dynasty.
- Why John wrote The Pyramid Principle and what he hopes readers will gain.
- The role of Karen, his "perfect teammate," in triumph and loss.
- The book's dedication to his son Eric and how Eric supported John during his toughest moments.
- Reflections on racial issues in sports, from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s era to today.
- Challenges John faced, including losing his daughter Erin and battling cancer twice, and the role of faith in resilience.
- How Coach Wooden's lessons remain relevant today beyond sports.
Plus, hear about Marvin Gaye, beach volleyball, and John’s favorite memories in a fun lightning Q&A.
Tune in for:
- Insights on resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
- Honest reflections on overcoming adversity and finding strength.
- Behind-the-scenes stories that shaped a champion.
This episode is filled with wisdom from an era of basketball legends, family love, and life lessons that resonate far beyond the game.
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