This week, I'm joined by Fadi El Khatib, legendary athlete turned entrepreneur and one of the most influential figures in sports and business across the Middle East. Known as "The Lebanese Tiger," Fadi shares how he transitioned from basketball stardom to building thriving ventures, including Champs Academies and gym facilities in Dubai.
In this episode, Fadi opens up about the key lessons he learned training alongside Michael Jordan, including the importance of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness—principles he now applies to his entrepreneurial journey. He dives into building successful fitness businesses, financing and scaling gym operations, and launching his latest venture, a new energy drink, while taking advantage of Dubai’s unparalleled opportunities for growth and networking.
Fadi also reflects on handling criticism, raising mentally tough kids, and balancing family life with business.
This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, grit, and transforming passion into a legacy that inspires others to thrive.0:00 Introduction and background of Fadi El Khatib
1:46 Transition from soccer to basketball and early challenges
3:24 Influence of high school coach and first international success
6:35 Key moments in Asian championships and training with Michael Jordan
10:44 Evolution of basketball, competition, and its popularity in Lebanon
16:47 Overview of Asian basketball league structures
31:41 Lessons from Michael Jordan and insights from The Last Dance
35:11 Mental toughness in sports, handling loss, and resilience
38:33 Transition to Dubai, Champs academies, and gym business advice
51:23 Financing and managing gym facilities, team growth, and leadership
1:02:46 Balancing fitness with a busy lifestyle and encouraging others
1:10:20 Dealing with criticism and negativity, and promoting mental fitness
1:17:54 Fadi's role in Dubai Sports Council and balancing family life
1:24:16 Raising mentally tough kids and criticism for leaving Lebanon
1:30:26 Business and government challenges in Lebanon, love for Dubai
1:36:12 Fadi's nickname and new energy drink launch
1:40:58 Networking in Dubai
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