The Average Not Average Podcast

Viktor Axelsen, Dr Chun Keat Yew (CK Yew)
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SPORTS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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 27: The Founder Of BWF’s Official Photo Agency, Importance Of Copyright, Creating Purpose & Impact In The World

    FEB 28

    Ep 27: The Founder Of BWF’s Official Photo Agency, Importance Of Copyright, Creating Purpose & Impact In The World

    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

    1h 16m
  2. Ep 26 Highlight: How Viktor Axelsen Handles Pressure, Expectations & Mental Preparations As A Two-Time Olympic Champion

    FEB 21 · BONUS

    Ep 26 Highlight: How Viktor Axelsen Handles Pressure, Expectations & Mental Preparations As A Two-Time Olympic Champion

    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

    20 min
  3. Ep 26: The Rise Of Thinaah Muralitharan, Personal Branding In Sport, Importance Of Family Support, Pressure & Mental Preparations

    FEB 14

    Ep 26: The Rise Of Thinaah Muralitharan, Personal Branding In Sport, Importance Of Family Support, Pressure & Mental Preparations

    In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen sit down with Malaysian badminton superstar Thinaah Muralitharan. They discuss her journey to becoming a top-ranked player, the pressures of being a role model, and the importance of family support in her career. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being an elite athlete, the significance of personal branding in sports, and the importance of mental preparation for competitions. They also share insights on navigating the complexities of social media, managing expectations as top athletes, and the unique experiences of competing in the Olympics. Chapter Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction to Thinaah Muralitharan 03:25 The Journey of a Badminton Star 05:55 Playing Style and Team Dynamics 08:11 Handling Pressure as a Top Player 10:24 The Role of a Role Model 13:19 Family Influence in Sports 15:42 New Rules in Professional Badminton 22:30 Training Schedules and Understanding Recovery 29:59 The Rise of Pickleball 34:33 Growing Up in Malaysia and Family Support 40:15 Navigating Personal Branding and Management 49:41 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes 56:16 How Thinaah Learnt Mandarin 59:11 The Impact of AI on Language and Communication 01:00:47 Why Viktor Wanted to Get Involved in The Podcast 01:02:52 Navigating Olympic Pressure and Expectations 01:08:25 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/@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

    1h 21m
  4. Ep 25: How To Build The UK’s Biggest Badminton Retailer, Balancing Family & Business, Unique Selling Points, Importance Of Grassroots Support

    JAN 31

    Ep 25: How To Build The UK’s Biggest Badminton Retailer, Balancing Family & Business, Unique Selling Points, Importance Of Grassroots Support

    In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen chat with YC Lim and his son Yee Wai Lim about the evolution of YC Sports from a small badminton retailer to a major market player. They discuss balancing family dynamics in business, challenges as the official retailer of the Yonex All England, and the importance of personal connections with customers. The episode also covers the evolution of badminton, grassroots support, and personal stories that showcase the camaraderie within the badminton community. Chapter Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction to the Guests 01:39 Family Dynamics in Business 03:40 The Evolution of YC Sports 09:41 Finding Niche Markets 19:17 Negotiation Strategies in Business 23:00 Sponsorship and Support in Badminton 28:22 The Importance of Grassroots Support 32:37 The Experience of Buying Rackets 40:59 Educating the Next Generation 42:07 Racket Customization and Customer Experience 46:03 Preparing for Major Tournaments 50:59 The All England Experience 56:47 Building Community and Grassroots Support 59:36 Entrepreneurial Mindset in Sports 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

    1h 12m
  5. Ep 24: Peter Gade On What It Takes To Be The World’s Best, Coaching Viktor Axelsen, The Growing Gap Between Asia & Europe & Avocado

    JAN 17

    Ep 24: Peter Gade On What It Takes To Be The World’s Best, Coaching Viktor Axelsen, The Growing Gap Between Asia & Europe & Avocado

    In this episode, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen host badminton legend Peter Gade. They discuss the pressures and responsibilities of being an icon in the sport, their early experiences in Malaysia, and the transition from player to coach. The conversation delves into the mental challenges faced during competitive matches, the impact of crowd dynamics, and their ventures outside of badminton. They also reflect on the future of the sport, while sharing insights from their personal journeys in badminton and business. Chapter Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction to Icons of Badminton 01:30 The Weight of Icon Status 05:18 Memories of Malaysia and Early Careers 09:57 Viktor’s Journey from Junior to Senior 13:55 How Peter Became Viktor’s Coach 18:48 Routines in High-Level Performance 20:19 Mental Challenges in Competitive Matches 25:28 The Impact of Crowd and Conditions on Court 37:20 Business Ventures Beyond Badminton 44:11 Reflections on Career Choices 49:07 The Future of Badminton Scoring Systems 51:36 The Gap Between Asian and European Players 1:01:57 The Kings Cup Experience 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-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

    1h 8m
  6. Ep 23: CEO Of The Biggest Shuttlecock Brand, Viktor’s First Professional Contract, The Next Generation Of Shuttlecock Production, The Importance of Shuttlecock Sustainability

    JAN 3

    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
  7. Ep 22: The Best Of The Average Not Average Podcast 2025 - Standout Conversations & Funniest Moments

    12/20/2025

    Ep 22: The Best Of The Average Not Average Podcast 2025 - Standout Conversations & Funniest Moments

    This highlights episode brings together the best moments from The Average Not Average Podcast in 2025. Each segment is taken from a different episode, capturing standout conversations, reflections, and lighter moments from throughout the year with CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen. Watch all previous episodes here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d41e211446b44f9b Our 2025 Guest List includes: Henrik Axelsen (EP9)Chirag Shetty (EP10)Cristian Luque Manjon (EP12)Ahmed Shahrazad Sani (EP14)Ayush Shetty (EP15)Dr David Evans (EP16)Ben Beckman (EP17)Alex Lanier (EP19)Kestutis Navickas (EP20) 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/

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

    12/06/2025

    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
See All (31)

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Viktor Axelsen, Dr Chun Keat Yew (CK Yew)
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Viktor Axelsen, Dr Chun Keat Yew (CK Yew)
  • Show Website
    The Average Not Average Podcast

You Might Also Like