Join Christine and Mark as they honor the life and legacy of their beloved friend, Earl "The Twirl" Cureton.

In this heartfelt episode, Christine and Mark share personal stories and memories of Earl, a man known for his unwavering kindness, generosity, and dedication to his community. Hear from those who knew Earl best, including Kurt David, Muggsy Bogues, and Derrick Coleman, as they reflect on his impact on the basketball world and beyond.

Discover the lasting legacy of Earl Cureton through the facilities and programs he supported, and the countless lives he touched.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about Earl's inspiring journey. We'll also give you a chance to win a copy of his book, "Earl the Twirl: My Life in Basketball," and invite you to share your own stories and memories of this remarkable individual.

Celebrate the life of a true legend and be inspired by the power of kindness.

COMMENT BELOW for a chance to win a copy of Earl's book!

Special thank you to:

Kurt A. David
https://www.kurtdavid.com/

Muggsy Bogues
https://boguesfoundation.org/

Derrick Coleman
https://derrickcolemanelite.com/

Buy a copy of Earl's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Earl-Twirl-My-Life-Basketball/dp/1476693838

Join Christine and Mark for a thrilling trip down memory lane as they relive the excitement of the Olympics!

In this episode of The Forging Excellence Show, we dive into the heart of the Games with two passionate sports fans. From the dazzling opening ceremony to the breathtaking athletic feats, Christine and Mark share their favorite moments and discuss what makes the Olympics so special.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as they recount everything from the nail-biting basketball finals to the mind-blowing track and field records. And let’s not forget the unforgettable introduction of breakdancing as an Olympic sport!

As we look ahead to the 2028 Games, they ponder the new sports that could potentially take center stage. And for a lighter moment, they dream about trying their hand at different Olympic disciplines.

Beyond the medals and the glory, Christine and Mark explore the mental and physical fortitude required to compete at the highest level. They highlight the importance of routines and mindfulness, not just for athletes but for everyone.

So grab your favorite snack, put on your imaginary gold medal, and join us for an unforgettable Olympic adventure!

This week on The Forging Excellence Show, Christine and Mark are diving deep into the fascinating world of sports facility development.

Fresh off her home purchase adventure (and the joys – and challenges – of home improvement!), Christine brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Together, they explore the crucial role of location selection for SMITH arenas.

But it's not just about finding a great spot on the map. Mark and Christine delve into the science behind location selection, discussing the importance of feasibility studies and considering factors like demographics and demand.

However, a winning location is just the first step. They unpack the amenities and services that make SMITH arenas a true 360-degree experience for athletes and their families. From delicious food options to on-site medical services, they're creating a space that caters to every need.

The conversation doesn't stop there. Mark and Christine discuss the heart of why they do what they do – the community. They explore the power of sports to build mental resilience and overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for all children.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports development and creating positive change. Learn the importance of patience and a positive attitude, discover the benefits of accessible and affordable facilities, and find out how sports facilities can be a thriving hub for communities.

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Use coupon code: WIN2024
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In this episode of The Forging Excellence Show, Christine and Mark welcome David Holloway, a former pro athlete turned success coach, for an inspiring conversation that will equip you with the tools to excel in all aspects of life.

David dives deep into his journey, sharing the importance of serving others and how prioritizing positive impact is the key to true greatness. He also unveils the power of words, teaching you how to master your inner dialogue and use language to shape your destiny. David doesn't shy away from the challenges we face, offering practical strategies to turn setbacks into fuel for success. He'll also guide you on how to awaken your inner strength and embrace stepping outside your comfort zone to unlock your full potential.

The conversation is packed with inspirational stories, including Walter Payton's relentless pursuit of excellence, and David's own journey of learning Mandarin. David also shares actionable tips gained from his motivational speaking engagements and membership site, all designed to empower you on your path to greatness. Whether your goal is to elevate your health and well-being, develop a growth mindset, or silence your inner critic, this episode offers valuable tools and insights to help you live a more fulfilling and successful life.

Tune in and join David, Christine, and Mark as they help you forge your own path to greatness!

Dive deep into the world of sports with Mark and Christine, the hosts of the Forging Excellence Show, as they chat about everything from interview secrets to the pure joy of competition. Hear Christine's inspiring journey from figure skating to the camaraderie of swimming, and discover Mark's passion for a whole range of sports, including baseball, softball, and even golf! They'll remind you why we love sports – the fun, the friendships, and the pure enjoyment of the game.

Go beyond the wins and losses as they explore the pressures of success, their favorite sports to watch as fans, and the unforgettable thrills of attending live games. From the energy of the crowd to the (sometimes questionable) charm of ballpark food, they'll take you on a journey that celebrates the unique experiences of being a sports fan.

They'll also discuss the importance of staying active throughout your life, highlighting the physical and mental benefits of keeping the sports spirit alive. Plus, get a glimpse into their sporting bucket list – dream courses they'd love to play and iconic events they'd love to attend. This episode is a celebration of sports, reminding you that it's all about the fun, the friendships, and the experiences that make it a lifelong love.

Ever dreamed of taking your athletic passion to the next level? In this inspiring first episode of Forging Excellence, Mark Smith and Christine Kawai take us behind the scenes of SMITH arenas, a revolutionary concept designed to empower athletes of all ages and abilities.

Mark and Christine delve into the inspiration that sparked the creation of SMITH arenas, highlighting the critical need for well-equipped and inclusive sports facilities within communities. They explore the unique "360 approach" that goes beyond playing fields. Imagine a space where athletes can hone their skills, review game footage, tackle homework, and train for peak performance – all under one roof!

But Forging Excellence isn't just about physical prowess. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship, fostering strong team bonds, and cultivating mindfulness as a core strength. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your journey, Mark and Christine remind us that mental preparation and a love for the game are equally important.

Looking for a little extra motivation? Christine shares her heart-warming story as a Detroit Tigers fan, reliving the thrill of meeting baseball legend Miguel Cabrera. Mark, a true sports enthusiast, throws in a hilarious (and cautionary) anecdote about missing an epic brawl at a Red Wings game. You won't want to miss that!

Darnell Blackburn joins Christine Kawai and Mark Smith covering various topics including first impressions, authenticity, mindset, encouragement, and overcoming challenges. Darnell shares his experience of meeting Mark for the first time during their MBA program and how Mark's consistent personality made a lasting impression. They discuss the importance of being true to oneself and embracing vulnerability.

Darnell also talks about his role as a traffic reporter for WDIV Detroit and the challenges of speaking in front of a camera. The conversation highlights the power of encouragement and the impact it can have on others. Darnell shares his personal experience of losing his son and how he uses his own struggles to inspire and uplift others. He also talks about his TEDx Detroit talk on implicit bias and the importance of empathy education. Darnell discusses his training consulting company, PRAT International, and the bias training programs he offers. He emphasizes the need to treat people the way you want your loved ones to be treated and shares his plans to start a nonprofit and an endowment in memory of his son. The conversation ends with a discussion about Darnell's signature bow ties and his future plans for a bow tie line.

Mark and Christine interview Chris Gronkowski, former NFL player turned entrepreneur and CEO of Ice Shaker. They discuss Chris's journey from being a professional athlete to starting his own business, the experience of appearing on Shark Tank, and the growth and versatility of the Ice Shaker brand. Chris shares insights on the importance of customer feedback, the power of licensing and partnerships, and the future innovations he is working on for the company.

Chris discusses his experience on Shark Tank and the lessons he learned as an entrepreneur and former professional athlete. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and being ready for any questions or challenges that may arise. Chris also shares his insights on the value of hard work, time management, and the need for athletes to start preparing for their future careers. He highlights the importance of learning multiple skills and being adaptable in the business world. Chris also discusses the lessons he learned from his parents about the value of a dollar and the importance of teaching children the value of hard work and earning their own money.