Rodrigue Akl: Leadership, Discipline, and Scaling Sports Academies
Episode 9 • Rodrigue Akl - 33 min
In this episode of the in2 Software podcast, we sit down with Lebanese basketball legend and sports entrepreneur Rodrigue Akl.
Rodrigue shares his journey from the professional court to founding and scaling sports academies across Lebanon and Dubai. We dive deep into athletic discipline, the core leadership values needed to run a sports organization, coaching philosophies that transform young athletes, and how modern management technology streamlines academy operations.
Highlights
Key takeaways from the conversation
Academics vs. Athletics
Why young athletes must balance education, discipline, and long-term security alongside sports.
The Mentorship Effect
How sports academies build life skills, accountability, and academic turnarounds for kids.
Scaling Beyond Borders
The journey of expanding an academy organically from Byblos to Dubai through shared values.
Operations & Technology
Modernizing academy management, retention tracking, and finances with specialized software.
Timestamps
Jump to the moments that matter
00:00
Introduction & Welcoming Rodrigue Akl
01:45
Early Journey in Athletics, Math & Pro Basketball
03:25
Balancing Education & Sports: Managing Injury Risks
05:15
Spotting Untapped Talent & Creating Opportunities
07:45
Core Academy Values: Passion Over Quick Profit
10:45
Mentorship Story: Transforming a Young Player's Life
see all
13:25
Purpose-Driven Leadership & Partner Trust
16:30
Lessons from Elite Coaches: Welcoming Diverse Perspectives
18:28
Scaling the Academy from Byblos to Dubai
21:00
Streamlining Operations, Cash Flow & Management with Tech
24:45
Retention Metrics: Tracking Active Clients & Churn
27:40
Coaching Philosophy: Giving Attention to Every Player
30:50
Mindset vs. Raw Talent & Final Advice
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