The Lies of the Education System | Nick Aldiero | FAP EP 108

In this episode, Ryan sits down with basketball skills coach and former public school teacher, Nick Aldiero, who shares why he decided to leave the classroom for the court. Nick opens up about the frustrations of a system that rewards tenure over excellence, and how he realized he had more to offer young athletes than just grading papers and enforcing lunch duties. Determined to build a small business around his passion for skill development, Nick hired a mentor to guide him through sales, marketing, and the transition away from one-size-fits-all teaching. Now, he runs group programs for first through ninth graders, focusing on fundamentals, footwork, and fostering confidence on and off the court.

Nick’s journey is a testament to the power of investing in yourself. From the initial sticker shock of business coaching to the hurdles of finding gym space during COVID, he learned that entrepreneurial success often comes down to setting standards—and holding both yourself and your clients to them. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by a day job or wondered how to transform a personal passion into a community-impacting business, tune in for Nick’s honest take on letting drive and determination pave a new path.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Kobe’s Influence & Champion Mindset

(04:00) Leaving Teaching: The Spark of Frustration

(08:00) Building a Small Business in Hoops

(11:00) Hiring a Coach for Coaching

(13:00) Moving to Group Sessions & Growing Fast

(15:00) Education System Flaws & COVID Challenges

(19:00) Adopting Non-Negotiable Standards

(22:00) Navigating Family Doubts & Pension Fears

(25:00) Methods for Player Development

(28:00) Final Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Socials and Sites:

RYAN’S INSTAGRAM: @ryandrobbins

NICK'S INSTAGRAM: @coach_aldiero

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https://youtu.be/z3yfM44BOFg?si=r0JyCOAaT8ALf64x