Athlete XQ Case Studies
Wanting to create a seamless transition from playing career to real estate development once playing career ended.
This client already had a clear understanding of what path he wanted to take once he left the locker room for the final time. He just didn’t know how to get to that path. Over an eighteen month period, we created a plan that included the understanding finances and accounting, financial markets, lending, construction, construction costs, zoning, permitting, investors and the ability to intern in the off season with a billionaire commercial property builder.
As a side note, this client also ran by me investment options that were presented to him during his playing career. Since this is not my money, I don’t take a position either way. What I do is pose questions so the client can make an informed decision on what is best for them.
Now retired, this former player is onto his third investment property and loving every minute of it.
Developing an identity outside of sport and not falling into the same ex-jock path many athletes fall into.
This is a common issue with many soon-to-retire or recently retired athletes. the repeated mindset is that you’ll never be as good at anything else as you were in sport. This client stood atop the podium on more than one occasion and is/was seen as one of the greatest to play their certain sport. Developing a new identity takes significant effort and work including the shedding of your old athlete self. Easily said, never easily done. Over time, this client was able to learn to manage their reaction to fear, develop their differentiators that set them apart from others, and have a very clear vision and understanding of where they we headed as an individual that wasn’t necessarily tied to their past.
This client was able to parlay their experience as an elite athlete into working with national corporations needing guidance in building successful teams.
How to become a team leader and effectively deal with all the outside noise
I became engaged with this client during his sophomore year. he was quickly becoming the star of team. He received high praise from his coaches and the media. This didn’t sit well with other members of the team who also had pro aspirations, were upperclassmen and not getting as much attention. This caused some friction amongst teammates and it showed in their play. This client was also getting bombarded by outside influences who thought they knew what was best and certainly advised him so. these are very common issues at this level that even the best sport coaches have difficulty managing.
First off, most people are not natural born leaders. This skill is formed over time. We spent a great deal of time having in-depth discussions in figuring out who he truly was, what made him tick, getting under the layers of fear which ultimately led him to finding his voice and confidence to evolve his leadership ability. This was also part and parcel to him quieting the outside noise by developing a personal board of directors that are objective, fair, not conflicted, and only have his best interest in mind. as a result of his better play and leadership ability, he was able to secure a mid-six digit nil deal.
To become a D-1 collegiate coach
This client was already a very good coach in their respective sport with a very good team and a winning record. What was needed in this client’s resume was how to effectively deal with school and athletic administration, as well as a robust booster organization. Athletics at this level are a business and the quicker you understand that the quicker you get around the curve. This client picked this up rather quickly. Through relationship building, developing a stronger voice, developing a well-rounded persona (not just that of a coach), and grasping the business concepts of collegiate sports, put this client on the path to achieving their ultimate goal.
Became a successful D-2 and international coach. Now the top assistant at a power 5 school.
Post-Olympic career alternatives
This is probably the most common issue I get contacted about. Help me figure out what is next and how do I make a living. This client was no exception to that rule. This involves a longer process unless you want to jump into the first thing that comes along. This client did not want to do that. They wanted to either find a career or build a sustainable business. Through many exercises, This client was clear on building their own business from the ground up. This included many moving parts such as the development of a business plan, financing, brand identity, partners, launch and sales. It took a while, but it eventually became reality.
A nationwide business assisting other athletes and their families. This business eventually scaled and was sold. Now this client is on to their next endeavor.
People I've worked with
What does this all mean for you?
Learn more about my process.“I’ve known Kim for over a year now. His knowledge of business, sport and life has broadened my perspective as I navigate life and sport as a D1 Collegiate Athlete. Kim is a trusted, objective, mentor and advisor that has my best interests in mind. His style is not to preach or tell me what I should do, but to pose questions that allow me to make the best-informed decision for myself. This has not only helped me grow as an athlete, but also in life outside of sport. I’m happy to have Kim as part of my inner circle.”
UCSB Basketball #13
“Kim’s coaching has been instrumental in helping me to: find the courage to finally become an entrepreneur (something I have wanted to do for years), build confidence in my ability to develop a business from the ground up, utilize my passion to enroll others in to my vision. Kim’s wealth of experience and knowledge as a professional coach and trainer have enabled him to provide strategic business advice, introductions to key industry partners & provide tools to assist me in overcoming challenges.”
“I met Kim as I was gearing up for a new business venture. His expertise and advice gave me direction to push forward and look at my business from all angles. Most importantly he taught me how to navigate my internal talk, to be focused on a positive solutions based mentality. He also tied me into his community of high achieving professionals. There I gained priceless connections with like minded people. I highly recommend Kim as an advisor!”
Founder of the Knotty Roller
“Kim has helped me tremendously with business strategy, blending work with life, reducing stress, increasing revenue, feeling supported and heard, and not feeling like your island by yourself! The accountability and support is priceless. Not only does he have one on one meetings with you, but he always researching outside of meetings and helping you behind the scenes whether it is finding new partnerships, research and development, or connecting you with someone to increase value in your business.”
President at Cassie’s Cardinals LLC
“Kim stepped in to help my company, RISE Athletes, when we needed it the most and he did so without hesitation. We were hosting an event in Santa Barbara, and he assisted with everything from outreach, apparel creation, feedback, news station setup, and day-of assistance. Wow, is all I have to say. He did so with an open heart and an eager mind. He was fantastic, consistent, and strategic.”
Olympian, Co-Founder + COO | RISE Athletes
“I have met many advisors who just didn’t “get” what I was needing. Then I met with Kim Fauskee! He was professional, engaged, and really listened to my concerns. I appreciated his fresh perspective, straightforward yet thoughtful assessments, and tactical plan for moving ahead. It really felt like he just “got” what I needed, and did’t waste my time! I highly recommend Kim to any business ready for action!”
CEO – Funky Pet Zones
“After completing my MBA, I was struggling with the realities and frustrations of trying to find an opportunity with an employer that would accentuate my strengths while providing me an opportunity to grow and advance in my career. While working with Kim, I was able to re-frame my thought process, learn practical and purposeful business acumen not taught to me in grad school, and gain the confidence I needed to land a dream opportunity I was looking for within six weeks of our initial meeting.”
Patamar Capital
“Kim first helped me clarify my goals and vision for my business life in the coming years. Next he helped me map out the various methods to get to where I wanted to go. Then Kim kept me pointed in the right direction and moving forward while measuring my progress. I owe him a great debt of gratitude.”
Bourke Wealth Management
“I’ve known Kim since I was a student athlete at the University of Notre Dame. Kim has been a constant confidant, mentor and educator. He has provided me business and life guidance during my playing career while developing a game plan for my post football life. I appreciate and value Kim’s involvement and friendship, but most importantly, knowing he has my back.”
Defensive Back / Safety. Baltimore Ravens
“Kim understands that helping people find the meaning and purpose behind what they do is the most important piece. When we got to the point of understanding that, the rest came together with utmost clarity. Kim helps me navigate the waters of interpersonal relationships; both professionally and personally. He’s enthusiastic and positive at times that I really need a pick-me-up. My business and livelihood would not be on the positive path it’s on now without him.”
Fitness Marketing Alliance
“Seeking assistance as an entrepreneur can be difficult. Kim Fauskee is the go-to man on where you need to start if you are seeking any form of assistance in the business world. His strategies, guidance and counsel are based on genuine life experiences and he has a profound database of knowledge on an endless array of personal and business matters. “
Residential Investment Advisor / Realtor
“By chance I crossed paths with Kim Fauskee. When Kim asked what I did, somewhat embarrassed I shared with him I am in a sales role, and that I had yet to feel proud of my new title after representing our country in 3 Olympic games. Kim squashed any intimidation that came along with the question, “so, then what?” Kim Fauskee is the support you want on your team to problem solve, strategize, and confidently take steps in the right direction for you!”
3x Olympian | 2x Gold Medalist and Silver Medalist
“Kim Fauskee is the consummate professional. His level of knowledge in business is only surpassed by his love for people and assisting in their success. His passion for what he does and his way of looking at life, business and sport make him a perfect fit for any athlete looking not only for success now, but success for the future. There just aren’t many people like him out there. I know, with 100% certainty, that my life has been enriched both on and off the field due to my relationship with Kim.”
NFL Safety | Indianapolis Colts
