EP194 - Can You Really Build a Pro Team From Nothing? with Katie Harnetiaux
In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof chats with Katie Harnetiaux, President of USL Spokane, as she shares her journey from leading teams at Amazon and Starbucks to launching two professional soccer teams from scratch. They also discuss the power of leadership, the challenges of building culture, and the lessons learned from stepping into the unknown.
Katie opens up about the sacrifices, the surprises, and the mission behind bringing high-level soccer to Spokane. Plus, she dives into the importance of mentorship, enduring tough seasons, and why sports are more than just a game—they’re a community lifeline.
If you're a leader, entrepreneur, or just someone who loves an underdog story, this episode is for you!
Meet Katie Harnetiaux
Katie Harnetiaux is President of USL Spokane. She is a global business leader with deep experience building consumer brands, scalable businesses and creating strong teams in equitable work environments.
Prior to her current role, Katie held significant leadership roles at Amazon, most recently as Head of Retail Marketing for North America. She led the Sports & Outdoors and Amazon Handmade businesses, driving significant growth and profitability across multiple channels, including social, digital, mobile, and retail.
In addition to Amazon, Katie held various leadership roles at Starbucks, and a strong agency background. Katie is now the only woman president of a professional soccer club that includes men’s and women’s teams.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
00:00 Introduction
01:52 What Leadership Really Means for Women
05:28 From Corporate Careers to Running a Soccer Club
10:05 When Your Work Becomes Your Life
11:46 Success Requires Endurance
13:47 Building Something for Spokane’s Future
19:35 The Hardest Part of Building a Team
25:20 Balancing Leadership & Marriage
27:04 How Pro Athletes & Staff Became a Family
31:40 The Pandemic Proved We Need Sports & Community
33:58 How Katie's Upbringing Shaped Her Parenting Style
39:33 Why Forcing Kids to Choose a Sport Too Soon is Harmful
49:19 How to Surround Yourself with the Right People
Resources, books, and links mentioned in this episode:
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About the Tyler Dickerhoof Show Podcast
The Impact Driven Leader Podcast, hosted by Tyler Dickerhoof, is for Xillennial leaders who have felt alone and ill-equipped to lead in today's world. Through inspiring interviews with authors from around the world, Tyler uncovers how unique leadership strengths can empower others to achieve so much more, with real impact.
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