The Average Not Average Podcast

Viktor Axelsen, Dr Chun Keat Yew (CK Yew)

Join two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen and Dr. Chun Keat Yew, also known as CK Yew, as they share their passion for badminton through insightful discussions and honest opinions. Beyond the court, they’ll dive into the sport’s business side, media influence, family life, expert tips on improving your game, and equipment recommendations. Get ready for engaging conversations and follow along!

  1. Ep 23: CEO Of The Biggest Shuttlecock Brand, Viktor’s First Professional Contract, The Next Generation Of Shuttlecock Production, The Importance of Shuttlecock Sustainability

    3 DAYS AGO

    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 global market trends. RSL is the world's largest badminton shuttlecock manufacturer. Chapter Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction and Background of Rasmus Skousen 03:28 Viktor Axelsen's Early Career and Contract 07:27 Transition from Store Owner to CEO of RSL 09:19 The Evolution of Badminton in Europe 12:35 Market Dynamics: China vs. Europe 15:18 Shuttlecock Production and Global Market Insights 18:04 Challenges in the Shuttlecock Industry 21:06 The Circular Economy of Shuttlecock Production 22:46 Innovations in Shuttlecock Design 27:49 The Impact of Feather Supply on the Industry 38:06 Sustainability and the Future of Shuttlecocks 44:35 Growth of Badminton Participation in Europe 45:47 The Rise of Badminton in Europe 49:22 Market Dynamics and Consumer Preferences 55:29 Shuttlecock Quality and Durability 59:56 The Future of Badminton and Emerging Trends Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw 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/

    1h 8m
  2. Ep 21: Viktor Axelsen’s Toughest Battle – Back Injury Updates, Tournament Plans, Crossing Paths With Stephen Curry, The Rise Of Pickleball & Padel

    06/12/2025

    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 Curry while training, and the ongoing issue of poor court quality at some major tournaments. *This episode was originally scheduled with Kestutis Navickas as a guest, however technical issues cut the conversation short. The episode with Kestutis was rescheduled, and you can watch his full episode here: https://youtu.be/RqvIO4qORY0?si=uqnKymOUJ8jUuY2i Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:53 Viktor's Health and Tournament Plans 08:06 Discussing Kestutis Navickas 16:37 Challenges with New Courts 19:28 Rise of Young Talents 28:26 Staying Positive and Motivated 32:55 Basketball Players 39:48 Pickleball and Padel Sports 45:10 Future of Badminton and Synthetic Shuttles 52:13 Personal Insights and Future Plans Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw 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/

    56 min
  3. ⁠EP20: Kestutis Navickas - Why French Badminton Is Becoming Stronger, Evolution Of Elite Badminton, Mental Toughness & Fashion In Athletes

    22/11/2025

    ⁠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 future of badminton as a competitive sport. Team dynamics and communication are essential for success. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing Kestutis Navickas, life at home, Paris and Dubai 09:48 Reflections on Past Matches and Competitors 09:50 Evolution of Elite Badminton Performance 19:22 The Importance of Recovery in Modern Badminton 19:51 Mental Fatigue in Modern Badminton 22:18 The Importance of Recovery 24:13 Coaching and Coordination in Badminton 27:13 Cultural Adaptation in Coaching 30:44 Recognition and Team Dynamics 33:28 Advice and Personal Growth 36:38 The Future of French Badminton 40:31 Fashion in Badminton 48:34 The Role of Image and Branding 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/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK'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/

    53 min
  4. Ep 19: Alex Lanier - Expectations Are Different As I’m Top-10 In The World, Chess, Golf and Bananas

    08/11/2025

    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 of his coaching relationship with Kestutis Navickas. The conversation also touches on Alex's love for chess, his preferences in his sports equipment and his badminton rackets, and a humorous anecdote about his aversion to bananas.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background08:51 Golf: A New Passion16:38 Chess: The Strategic Game18:31 Daily Routine and Training23:24 Transition to Top 10 and Pressure30:17 Team France and Support Structure31:20 The Competitive Edge: Pushing Each Other to Greatness36:16 Building a Strong Coach-Player Relationship41:18 Balancing Professionalism and Personal Connection50:46 The Evolution of Equipment: Racket Preferences58:16 Navigating Personal Challenges: The Banana DilemmaFollow 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/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK'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/

    1h 4m
  5. Ep 18: Viktor Axelsen - I Have No Problems With Shi Yu Qi & I Want To Win So Bad

    25/10/2025

    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 commitments and family life. Viktor shares insights into his mindset, future goals, and the importance of personal growth in his journey as an elite athlete. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and Tournament Preparations 02:54 Victor's Comeback Journey 05:58 Navigating Pressure and Expectations 08:58 Controversies on the Court, Shi Yu Qi's match at the Denmark Open 2025 11:44 Mindset and Emotional Resilience 15:04 Reflections on Competition and Growth 17:40 The Importance of Learning and Adaptation 20:47 The Emotional Weight of Performance 23:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations 29:39 Physical Training and Mental Resilience 32:00 Goals and Aspirations for the Year 33:33 Balancing Family Life and Professional Commitments 39:56 New Projects and Initiatives in Badminton 45:44 Media Engagement and Public Perception 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/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK'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/

    51 min
  6. Ep 17: Ben Beckman - Elite Player to Online Creator to Badminton Commentator - The Love Story

    11/10/2025

    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 opportunities. CK Yew and Ben Beckman delve into the intricacies of commentary, content creation, and the evolution of badminton as a sport. They discuss their experiences within the BWF community, the dynamics of working together as commentators, and the importance of effective communication. Ben shares his journey from being a player to a content creator and commentator, reflecting on his training, temperament, and future aspirations. The discussion highlights the significance of community, collaboration, and personal growth in the world of badminton.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:33 Exploring BXL: A Unique Badminton Tournament04:56 The Impact of Timed Matches on Gameplay11:19 Ben's Personal Connection to Indonesia14:40 Transition to Commentary: How Ben Became a Commentator19:36 Understanding BXL's Structure and Future Plans28:25 Exploring Accommodation Choices29:07 The Evolution of Badminton Events30:12 Innovative Formats in Badminton31:37 The Seriousness of Exhibition Matches33:39 The Role of Commentary in Badminton35:59 The BWF Community and Content Creation44:02 The Journey of a Content Creator51:59 Feedback and Growth in Content Production55:44 Cultural Differences in Timekeeping56:45 Morning Routines and Fitness59:42 Ben the Player: Playing Style and Career01:02:19 Temperament and Professionalism on Court01:07:10 Transitioning from Player to Coach and Commentator01:08:44 Future Aspirations in Commentary and Content Creation01:14:59 Engaging with the Community and Future of BadmintonFollow 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/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK'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/

    1h 18m
  7. Ep 16 Dr David Evans - BWF World Tour Umpire - The Challenge Of Being An Umpire And The Hardest Decision I Had To Make

    27/09/2025

    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 importance of communication, and the evolving role of umpires in the game. The conversation also touches on the introduction of time clocks in badminton and the need for better support and recognition for umpires.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Umpiring and Player Dynamics02:48 The Role of Technology in Umpiring05:36 Communication Between Umpires and Players08:29 Controversial Calls and Interpretations11:21 The New 25-Second Time Clock Implementation22:24 The Art of Diving in Badminton23:30 Umpires' Role in Match Enforcement25:36 Implementing New Rules and Scoring Systems27:11 Challenges Faced by Umpires30:00 The Journey to Becoming a BWF Umpire35:48 The Commitment Required for Umpiring40:01 The Role of Umpires and Referees47:10 Controversial Calls and Decision-Making56:27 Understanding Badminton Rules and RegulationsFollow 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/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK'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/

    1h 2m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen and Dr. Chun Keat Yew, also known as CK Yew, as they share their passion for badminton through insightful discussions and honest opinions. Beyond the court, they’ll dive into the sport’s business side, media influence, family life, expert tips on improving your game, and equipment recommendations. Get ready for engaging conversations and follow along!

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