This Best of 2025 episode brings together the most listened-to and most shared conversations from Beyond Coaching this year.Each segment tackles a reality coaches deal with every day: how to build culture when not everyone plays, how to develop leaders through failure, and how to handle stress without trying to eliminate it.You’ll hear from Brent Hobson, Jim McNeal, and Mitch Hull—three coaches and leaders working in very different environments, but wrestling with the same leadership challenges.Different settings. Same issues. Leadership, pressure, failure, and building programs that last.Episode HighlightsBrent Hobson – Value Beyond Playing TimeNot everyone plays—but everyone still shapes the culture. Brent Hobson, longtime head coach of Friends University Women’s Soccer, explains how he intentionally builds value for athletes who may never see the field, including why the only award in his office has nothing to do with wins or goals. This is what team-first culture looks like in practice.Topics include:Building value beyond the lineupThe Garland Award and why it mattersCoaching honesty without lowering standardsWhat’s actually changed—and hasn’t—with today’s athletesJim McNeal – Failure as a Leadership ToolJim McNeal, retired Navy Reserve Rear Admiral and leadership mentor at the U.S. Naval Academy, explains why the Academy is intentionally designed to make high achievers fail—and why that matters.Failure isn’t accidental. It’s part of the training.Topics include:The Naval Academy as a leadership laboratoryWhy leaders are judged on how they lead people, not just resultsHelping high achievers learn to fail safelyShifting from external success to internal standardsMitch Hull – Stress, Pressure, and the ProcessWe spend a lot of time trying to remove stress from sport. Research suggests that approach often backfires.Mitch Hull explains why stress itself isn’t the problem, why perception matters more than pressure, and how coaches reduce stress by focusing on habits, preparation, and daily execution—not the scoreboard.Topics include:Why “stress is bad” is the wrong messageReframing pressure as preparationProcess-over-outcome coachingHelping athletes perform when it matters mostBeyond Coaching is produced by the Impactful Coaching Project, an initiative focused on helping coaches lead the whole person—not just the performer.The Impactful Coaching Project exists to support coaches at every level as they navigate leadership, culture, pressure, and the realities of coaching today’s athletes. Through podcasts, writing, research, and coach education, ICP emphasizes practical leadership, honest conversations, and systems of care that help teams perform and people grow.Learn more at impactfulcoachingproject.com
In this Beyond Coaching Podcast Short, the conversation centers on a simple but often neglected truth: care doesn’t happen by accident—it has to be planned.The discussion explores how coaches can create intentional platforms for honest, constructive dialogue with players. When athletes are given the right setting, clear expectations, and healthy boundaries, most are fair, thoughtful, and invested in making the program better—not tearing it down.The episode also highlights the enduring power of small, personal gestures. A handwritten note. A name written in ink. A quiet moment of affirmation without an audience. These practices still matter—and they still work.Beyond individual actions, the conversation zooms out to culture. The stories a team tells—about gratitude, care, and looking out for one another—shape identity far more than win-loss records. What gets noticed, named, and repeated becomes who the team is.The bottom line is clear: if care isn’t built into weekly rhythms, practice plans, and systems, it will get crowded out by scouting reports, recruiting, and schedules. Coaches who want it to last have to plan for it.Key themes:Creating healthy structures for player feedbackWhy most athletes are fair when given the right environmentThe lasting impact of handwritten notes and personal affirmationUsing stories to reinforce team values and cultureWhy care must be scheduled—or it disappearsListen to Beyond Coaching:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-coaching-an-impactful-coaching-project-podcast/id1711128150Spotify: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-coaching-an-impactful-coaching-project-podcast/id1711128150Learn more about the Impactful Coaching Project at: https://impactfulcoachingproject.com
Rob sits down with Brent Hobson, longtime Friends University women’s soccer coach. Brent became a head coach at 24 and has spent nearly a decade shaping a program built on clarity, honest feedback, and team-first culture.They dig into what it actually takes to coach Gen Z, how to lead players who aren’t getting the role they hoped for, and why self-evaluation is one of the most underrated tools in a coach’s toolkit.Key ThemesCoaching a Generation Under Constant PressureBrent sees today’s athletes as more visible, more individualized, and more influenced by social media. Instead of complaining about the shift, he explains how coaches can adapt and still build connected teams.Valuing Every AthleteBrent created the Garland Award, named after a former player who rarely played but shaped the program through character and commitment. It’s the only award displayed in his office—and a reminder that contribution isn’t limited to playing time.Honest Conversations About Role and RealityWhether it’s the athlete who won’t play much or the athlete upset about their role, Brent leans toward clarity over comfort. He outlines how to help players understand how they can still impact the team—and why these conversations require coaches, captains, and teammates working together.How 3D Coaching Changed His ApproachInitially skeptical, Brent now credits the 3D framework with helping him slow down, reflect, and rethink his relationship-building as a coach. It gave him a needed “renewal” in how he leads.What Administrators Need to HearEvaluations shouldn’t be a hunt for mistakes. Brent urges ADs to look at the whole athlete experience and share what’s going well—not just what needs work.Rapid-Fire HighlightsBook recommendation: Shoe Dog by Phil KnightFailure that shaped him: The challenging 2020 COVID seasonDefinition of success: Lasting relationships with players and alumniBest golf score: 73 at Cherry OaksNew habit: Listening more—to players, colleagues, and his kidsListen on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-coaching-an-impactful-coaching-project-podcast/id1711128150 Spotify: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-coaching-an-impactful-coaching-project-podcast/id1711128150More resources at impactfulcoachingproject.com
Rob sits down with longtime softball coach Suzanne Unruh to unpack how coaching has changed over the past decade—and why today’s athletes require a different kind of leadership. Suze shares how she evolved from a win-driven, blunt young coach to a purpose-focused mentor, emphasizing emotional intelligence, individualized coaching, and building identity beyond the game.The conversation highlights how showcase culture has impacted competitiveness, the importance of connection off the field, and why faith and relational trust have become central to her coaching philosophy. For anyone leading this generation—on the field or beyond—it’s a timely, honest look at what it takes to coach well today.Key Themes:Coaching evolution: Suze reflects on how her approach has shifted from winning at all costs to leading with purpose, patience, and trust.Showcase culture and shifting motivation: Today’s athletes often come from environments where exposure matters more than winning. Coaches must reframe the meaning of competition and team success.Individualized leadership: Modern athletes expect relational coaching. Knowing how each athlete wants to be coached is key to earning buy-in.Mental health and emotional awareness: Athletes today are more open about emotions. Coaches need emotional discipline and active presence, especially in high-pressure moments.Rebuilding identity: When athletes don’t get the role they want, identity can crack. Coaches play a central role in helping athletes understand their value beyond the lineup.Relational trust: Off-field connection strengthens on-field performance. Suze shares practical ways she invests in athletes as whole people.Faith and long-term impact: Suze views coaching as ministry and mentorship—emphasizing purpose, relationships, and post-college connection as her deepest success markers.Notable Moments:01:10 – Suze on early coaching: “I was good, so I thought I’d just make them good” 03:20 – Becoming a head coach at age 22, unexpectedly 07:55 – Mistakes made early on—blunt honesty without relational context 12:40 – Comparing JUCO and four-year athletes: mindset, priorities, and approach 16:13 – The showcase era and its impact on competitiveness and team dynamics 18:20 – Athletes say they love competition—but do they mean it? 20:14 – The rise of emotional transparency in today’s athlete 22:30 – How Suze keeps the bottom 10 on the roster valued and engaged 24:00 – Building identity outside the game to prepare for post-athletic life 27:42 – The cost of showing visible stress on the field 29:10 – What Suze wants it to feel like to be coached by her 32:45 – A coaching failure that almost made her quit—and what pulled her back 36:00 – Rapid fire: books, mistakes, success, and favorite coachesBooks mentioned: Tony Dungy’s leadership books, Pat Summitt’s coaching philosophyPractical Takeaways:Rebuild the team-first mindset. In the showcase era, many athletes arrive focused on visibility, not competition. Reframe the value of team success and shared goals.Coach the individual. Modern athletes need coaching tailored to how they receive feedback. One-size-fits-all approaches don’t work.Establish identity beyond the sport. When roles change or playing time decreases, identity gaps can become emotional gaps. Use relationship to fill them.Manage your presence. Your emotional regulation sets the tone. Athletes quickly absorb your body language and energy.Value the whole roster. The culture often depends more on how the “non-stars” are treated than how the stars perform.Lead with relationship. Know their story. Trust and influence grow when athletes feel seen beyond the field.Keep faith at the center (if it aligns with your context). For Suze, purpose flows from faith—and that purpose informs how she coaches, leads, and supports her athletes long-term.Notable Quotes:Suzanne Unruh “They need to know I know how they want to be coached—and how not to coach them.” “Being told you’re appreciated and you have a purpose is one of the most important things an athlete needs today.”Connect with the Impactful Coaching Project: X: @ICP_Project Instagram: @impactful_coaching_project LinkedIn: Impactful Coaching Project
Rob sits down with longtime coach and mentor Dean Jaderston to unpack the transitions that shaped his career—from Minnesota high schools to college men’s hoops, and eventually to leading women at Friends University. Dean lays out a clear contrast between coaching men and women, why the collective psyche matters on women’s teams, how to move from managing to leading, and what it takes to stay steady in a public, always-on era. Faith, patience, and the willingness to play the long game thread through the whole conversation.Key ThemesTransitions that grow you: High school → college; men → women; what Dean “didn’t know he didn’t know” about recruiting and preparation.Coachability & confidence: With men, puncturing overconfidence; with women, raising ceilings and naming their potential.The collective effect: Public praise/critique lands differently on women’s teams—use “we/us” language and handle most individual feedback 1:1.Lead, don’t just manage: Dean’s “one big rule”—you either bless people or curse people; hold to that and cut the bloated rulebook.Faith as framework: Total-release effort as worship; coach the whole person—spiritually, emotionally, psychologically.Reality of the job: Life and coaching are messy; don’t overreact, don’t take it personally, watch actions over words, and keep vision front and center.Listening builds buy-in: Seek first to understand; today’s athletes spot inauthenticity fast.Vision sustains: The Hartman Arena story—nobody believed it early; vision made the work coherent.Notable Moments00:15 – Why Rob almost changed jobs just to learn from Dean01:36 – High school → college: “I didn’t know what I didn’t know” (recruiting, prep)06:00 – When talent stalls: the cost of being uncoachable06:33 – Men vs. women: confidence gaps and ceilings08:52 – Language shift: use “we/us”; keep praise/critique mostly individual10:49 – Why schemes/X&O often matter more in the women’s game11:58 – Teaching bug: chasing light-bulb moments and durable confidence14:35 – Faith, “audience of One,” and coaching the whole person20:17 – Coaching in the information age: echo chambers and public scrutiny21:18 – From rules to leadership: Dean’s single standard (“bless vs. curse”)23:13 – Adapt the system to the roster you actually have24:04 – Listening as strategy for buy-in26:00 – Hope and vision: conditioning with the end in mind30:26 – Don’t take it personal; judge actions over words31:02 – Playing the long game when your job feels year-to-year33:44 – Embrace the mess; prepare for age-appropriate, inappropriate moments35:25 – Rapid fire: books, failures, definitions of success, habitsRapid-Fire ReferencesBooks mentioned: Coach K’s leadership book (annual reread); Frosty Westering’s Make the Big Time Where You Are (ethos: maximize what you have, where you are).Podcast: Better Questions by Matt Davis.Definition of success: Help people see and seize their potential—spiritually, academically, emotionally, athletically.Practical TakeawaysShrink the rulebook. Hold a single, culture-defining standard and enforce it consistently.Reframe confidence. With men, calibrate realism; with women, remove ceilings.Mind the locker room dynamics. Public praise/critique has second-order effects on women’s teams—coach individuals individually.Lead with listening. Credibility follows curiosity and presence.Keep vision visible. Name the destination daily so effort has context.Don’t chase validation. If behavior changes, let that be the win.Check out more of our stuff (and sign up to get a free resource) at impactfulcoachingproject.com.
In this episode, Dustin Galyon shares a real-world coaching moment involving a senior student-athlete who skipped a team workout and responded with uncharacteristic defiance. Instead of reacting with discipline alone, Dustin leaned on years of relationship-building to have a direct, honest conversation—one that ultimately deepened trust and ended with mutual respect.The conversation explores how coaching has changed over the past decade, why relationships matter more than ever, and how today’s coaches can lead with both accountability and empathy. It’s a reminder that the best coaching happens when leaders stay connected, even in tough moments.Brought to You By:The Impactful Coaching Project helps coaches lead today’s athletes with a more holistic approach to leadership. ICP offers training, tools, and research-backed resources that connect mental, emotional, and physical health to strong team performance. Learn how to build healthy, competitive team cultures at impactfulcoachingproject.com.
In Part 2, we dig deeper into how the U.S. Naval Academy develops ethical, resilient leaders—and how those same lessons apply to coaching. Jim breaks down the Academy’s leadership lab, the sophomore ethics course, and the “2 for 7” contract that defines a midshipman’s commitment. We also talk about his new book, Crucibles—what inspired it, the diverse organizations studied (from NASA to the Gurkhas to the Mafia), and what modern teams and coaches can learn from how these groups design challenges that forge true belonging and purpose.TopicsThe Academy as a “leadership laboratory”Sophomore ethics: Ethical & Moral Reasoning for the Naval Leader“2 for 7” commitment and the cost of serviceMoral stress tests: real-world ethical scenariosTime management and “the alligator closest to the boat”Jim’s new book Crucibles — lessons from NASA, Gurkhas, Mafia, and moreThe fine line between initiation and hazingDesigning crucibles that build learning organizations (five elements)Why standards—not comfort—should define leadershipLightning round: Season of Life, standards > stats, defining success, early morningsFive takeaways for coachesTeach ethics like a skill. Pressure-test decision-making.Lead with standards. Stop chasing external validation.Design your crucible. If it doesn’t serve growth, it’s hazing.Master time. Handle “the alligator closest to the boat.”Build a learning culture. Focus on mastery, challenge, culture, expertise, and strategy.Resources mentionedCrucibles — Jim McNeil & Eric Smith (audiobook available)Season of Life — Jeffrey MarxPull quotes“If you can’t tie a tradition to a positive result, it’s hazing.”“Crucibles define who belongs—not by exclusion, but by shared purpose.”“You can’t lead others unless you know yourself.”“Standards—not external judges—have to drive us.”“Time management is the skill: handle the alligator closest to the boat.”Listen & linksApple Podcasts: Beyond Coaching on AppleSpotify: Beyond Coaching on SpotifyWebsite: impactfulcoachingproject.comPlease review! In your review, tell us your biggest takeaway from this episode!
This special Best of September edition of Beyond Coaching brings together some of the most eye-opening and practical conversations we’ve had this month. From the sidelines of youth sports to the leadership labs of the Naval Academy, each guest shared powerful stories and truths that speak directly to the challenges coaches and leaders face every day.We kick things off with Mitch Hull of the 3D Institute, who challenges how we think about parents in youth sports. Then, Jamy Bechler joins us with a dose of real-world coaching leadership that bridges theory and the chaos of daily decisions. And finally, Jim McNeil from the U.S. Naval Academy offers a look inside how future leaders are forged—not just through wins, but through failure.Episode Timeline & Highlights[1:16] – Are parents the problem—or just a symptom? Mitch Hull reframes the youth sports narrative. [4:19] – Playing time is king: What most parent complaints are really about—and why it matters. [6:00] – Why 70% of kids quit sports before high school. It's not about the scoreboard—it’s about what we model. [8:16] – “Simple, not easy”: Jamy Bechler on how leadership breaks down when the day gets messy. [10:51] – Twelve walk in, not two: A surprise team meeting tests Jamy’s leadership approach in real time. [14:08] – The Naval Academy as a leadership lab: Jim McNeil on how midshipmen judge adults by their leadership. [17:24] – Permission to fail: Why the Academy pushes high achievers to fail early, reflect deeply, and grow fast. Links & ResourcesMitch Hull – 3D InstituteJamy Bechler – jamybechler.comJim McNeal – Author of CruciblesLearn more at impactfulcoachingproject.substack.comIf this episode challenged or inspired you, I’d love it if you’d share it with another coach, leader, or parent. Be sure to rate, review, and follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode. Thanks for being part of the Impactful Coaching Project!
In this first half of my conversation with Jim McNeal, we dive deep into what it means to lead, fail, and mentor in one of the toughest leadership pipelines in the world: the U.S. Naval Academy. Jim, a Naval Academy alum turned coach, mentor, and author, shares how he coaches high school and collegiate athletes, why failure is intentionally built into the Academy’s system, and how he guides students to own responsibility instead of blaming external circumstances.We also unpack how coaching high school differs from coaching at the college level in terms of maturity, mindset, and purpose — and why the Academy functions like a leadership laboratory, where every interaction matters. The pressure is intentional. The lessons are real. And failure is expected — as long as you learn from it.Episode Highlights[00:45] – Jim’s background: Naval Academy grad, Supply Corps officer, journey into coaching & mentoring [08:05] – Differences between coaching high school vs. college athletes [12:31] – Why the Naval Academy functions as a leadership laboratory [15:38] – The intentional role of failure in the Academy’s growth model [19:49] – Helping high achievers internalize responsibility instead of blame [24:43] – The importance of loving the process over focusing only on outcomes [29:21] – How coaching generational shifts—and building trust—has (or hasn’t) changed over time🔗 Links & ResourcesCrucibles by Jim McNeil & J. Eric SmithBeyond Coaching Podcast: beyondcoaching.alitu.comImpactful Coaching Project: impactfulcoachingproject.comClosing ThoughtsThanks for tuning in to Part 1 of my conversation with Jim McNeil. In Part 2, we’ll dig into his new book Crucibles, pull out lessons for coaches and leaders, and explore what it really takes to lead through adversity.If you enjoyed the episode, make sure to follow, rate, and review the show, and share it with a fellow coach or leader who needs to hear it. In your review, put your favorite part of this episode!
In this episode, Rob welcomes back Mitch Hull for a honest conversation about how to fix youth sports. They explore the root causes of parent conflict, why playing time dominates every sideline conversation, and what coaches and athletic leaders can actually do to shift the culture. From parent meetings to post-game behavior, Mitch shares practical, field-tested advice on how to create transformational environments rooted in purpose—not pressure.This episode is for anyone who’s tired of the noise around youth sports and ready to do something about it.Topics CoveredAre parents the disease or the symptom?Why every conflict eventually comes down to playing timeHow to run a parent meeting that sets the toneWhy kids quit—and how coaches and parents unintentionally push them awayWhat it means to “coach the experience,” not just the outcomeSimple tools to humanize the game and build real connectionKey TakeawaysParents judge what they see, and if coaches don’t show value beyond playing time, that’s all parents will care about.Playing time is finite—so give parents something infinite to hold onto: their child’s experience, character, and growth.We can’t wait for others to fix youth sports. Coaches must lead—early, often, and intentionally.Small, consistent moments of connection (thanking officials, affirming opponents, celebrating effort) transform culture more than any policy ever will.The best programs teach kids how to respond to adversity—not avoid it.Rapid Fire WisdomBuild trust early: share your “why” with parents and athletesTrain coaches to lead, not just manageNormalize mistakes and model healthy response to pressureReinforce values through routines (trash pickup, handshakes, put-ups)Resources + Links🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://beyondcoaching.alitu.com📰 Coaching insights, articles, and tools: https://impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com📚 Books:• Coaching and Leading the 21st Century Athlete• Athletic Department Leadership and Developing CoachesAvailable now on Amazon.
In this special Best of edition, we revisit some of the most meaningful conversations from August on Beyond Coaching. These highlights capture the real work of coaching—leading people, shaping environments, and creating cultures that last.Featured SegmentsJason Schmidt on Early Coaching Lessons Jason reflects on stepping into a head coaching role at a young age, learning the hard truth that leadership isn’t about the title—it’s about serving athletes where they are.Balancing Care and Competitiveness Jason unpacks one of coaching’s hardest tensions: building a culture of care while still demanding competitiveness. He explains his 80/20 roster philosophy and how transformation happens when competitiveness and culture coexist.Generation Z and Coaching Today Jason shares insights on working with Gen Z athletes—why they test everything, how attention spans are shaped by technology, and why intentional systems of care and relational leadership matter more than ever.The Messiah Method and Creating Environments Rob and Dustin dive into The Messiah Method, discussing why the coach’s primary role is to create an environment where athletes can grow and thrive. They explore how environment becomes culture, why nothing should be left to chance, and what daily habits give programs meaning beyond wins and losses.Learn Moreimpactfulcoachingproject.comimpactfulcoachingproject.substack.comKeep an eye out for the upcoming Impactful Coaching Project Online Coaching Class—a new way to develop as a coach through our proven frameworks, resources, and conversations.
In this episode of the Beyond Coaching podcast, host Rob Ramseyer talks with Jayson Schmidt — a branding consultant for college athletic departments and a former Division II women’s lacrosse head coach — about the realities of leading in today’s sports landscape.Jayson’s journey took him from corporate marketing into coaching, where he quickly learned that leadership is less about titles and more about intentional relationships. From earning just $5,000 as a part-time assistant to running his own consulting business, Jayson has built his career on understanding people, serving them well, and creating cultures that balance competition with care.Key Themes in This Episode1. Lessons from the Early Coaching YearsJayson shares what he “didn’t know he didn’t know” when stepping into leadership as a 23-year-old coach. He talks about the difference between thinking you understand servant leadership and truly living it, especially when coaching former teammates.2. Balancing Relationships and WinningHow do you recruit athletes who not only fit your culture but also bring the competitive edge needed to win? Jayson explains the “80/20 rule” for roster makeup, how to handle strong personalities, and why some of his most meaningful relationships came from players in that 20%.3. Leading Generation ZJayson works daily on recruiting, marketing to, and leading Gen Z student-athletes. He offers insights on what’s similar across generations (youthful skepticism, testing boundaries) and what’s different (shorter attention spans, higher expectations for intentional connection).4. Building Systems of CareFrom setting phone reminders to reach out to athletes, to keeping an open-door policy, to adopting a “double exclamation” text system for urgent needs, Jayson shares practical ways to make players feel seen, valued, and supported.5. Redefining Toughness in SportsDrawing from Do Hard Things and his own coaching experience, Jayson breaks down the three pillars of team toughness:Psychological safety — an environment where players can mess up without fear of exclusion.Opportunities to get better — skilled coaching and intentional development.Shared adversity — going through hard things together, on and off the field, and maintaining relationships through them.Memorable Quotes“This isn’t about you. This was never about you.”“The moments that create toughness aren’t always on the field; they’re in the hardest moments of life, when people come around you.”Who Should ListenThis episode is for:Coaches looking to deepen relationships while staying competitiveAthletic directors seeking cultural alignment in recruitingLeaders of Generation Z in athletics, education, or businessAnyone interested in intentional leadership and team cultureResources and Links MentionedConnect with Jayson Schmidt: https://www.hellopreseason.com/brandingforathleticsBook: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin HardyLearn more about the Impactful Coaching Project: impactfulcoachingproject.substack.comVisit us at: impactfulcoachingproject.comSubscribe on Substack: impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
This Best of July episode highlights the most impactful moments from recent conversations on Beyond Coaching. The theme that emerged again and again: congruence. Luke Jones of Reclaimed Today reframes authenticity as the alignment between what we say and how we live—something Gen Z athletes are craving more than ever.We also revisit core pillars of the Impactful Coaching Project: competence and care. From filtering meaningful content in a noisy world to building real systems of care for your team, this episode offers practical takeaways for any coach committed to leading well.Presented by: The Impactful Coaching Project, in partnership with Friends University. We develop coaches who coach the whole person.For more, visit: impactfulcoachingproject.com impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
In this episode, Rob and Dustin dive into The Messiah Method—a book that explores how Messiah College built one of the most dominant college soccer programs from 2000 to 2010. But this isn’t just about winning. It’s about the why behind the success: building an intentional environment where athletes grow, thrive, and represent something greater than themselves.Key Themes:Environment > Scoreboard – What makes your program worth being part of if you take away the scoreboard? For Messiah, it was all about culture, intentionality, and relationships.Culture Is Built, Not Hoped For – Every program has a culture. The question is whether you’re shaping it on purpose. Great programs are intentional about how they do what they do.Systems of Care – Tied into the "3 C’s" framework from Rob and Dustin’s work, this episode emphasizes that great environments are supported by systems—particularly systems of care that reinforce team values.Relationships Drive Motivation – Their own data shows that teammates and family are the top motivators for student-athletes, not just coaches. Coaches have to build environments where these relationships can flourish.The Recruiting Test – If a recruit's parent observed your team for a week, what would they say you value most? That’s your real identity.Quote of the Episode: "Take away the scoreboard—what still makes your program worth being part of?"Coach Reflection Questions:What do your daily habits say about your team culture?Are you building something that will last beyond one season?Do your players live out your values—or just hear about them?Beyond Coaching is a podcast developed by the Impactful Coaching Project in partnership with Friends University. We help coaches develop the whole person and lead the 21st century athlete with clarity and purpose.For more resources, articles, and training: Website: impactfulcoachingproject.com Substack: impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
In this episode, we dive into Congruency Coaching for Gen Z Athletes as Rob speaks with Luke Jones, Partnership Liaison for Reclaim Today—a division of Our Daily Bread Ministries focused on engaging millennials and Gen Z. Luke shares valuable insights into the challenges Gen Z faces, including information overload, skepticism towards authority, and their deep craving for authenticity. Together, they explore how coaches and leaders can engage Gen Z athletes more meaningfully through techniques like reverse coaching, competence, and the power of honest apology. Discover how 'the ministry of presence' can help connect young people with God in ordinary moments, potentially key for both spiritual and identity formation. Key topics include the importance of authenticity, navigating information overload, building trust, and the challenges of mobilizing Gen Z from awareness to action. Listen in to learn how to foster genuine relationships while coaching the whole person in a holistic approach.Key Topics Covered:Why authenticity and congruency matter deeply to Gen ZNavigating the information overload: competence vs. lazinessReverse coaching: mutual learning between athletes and coachesWhy Gen Z may be skeptical of authority—but still deeply hungry for mentorshipCoaching moments that build (or break) trust and characterIdentity and sport: why coaches must help athletes discompartmentalizeThe challenge of mobilizing Gen Z from awareness to actionHow presence, silence, and vulnerability build relationshipsNotable Quotes:“Authenticity is huge. To miss that is to miss the heart of the student and the heart of the athlete.”“We’ve been trained in the arts of filtering. So we recognize filters easily.”“The life of a disciple is a planned, intentional life. And coaching can mirror that.”“Don’t get mad at Gen Z. Get busy with them.” —Tim Elmore (via Luke)Resources Mentioned:Reclaim Today: reclaimtoday.orgBooks: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, Renovation of the Heart, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, Celebration of DisciplineConnect with Luke: luke.jones@odb.orgReach out via reclaimtoday.orgThe Impactful Coaching Project (ICP) seeks to develop coaches that coach the whole person. ICP is the thought leader in coaching the 21st century athlete and produces training, information, and research to help coaches develop. For more information, check out https://impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com/ or contact us at rob@impactfulcoachingproject.com.
In this short episode, Rob and Dustin revisit the foundational framework that launched the Impactful Coaching Project: The Three C’s—Competence, Care, and Constant. Originally introduced in an early Substack post, these three traits remain core to how they think about leadership, coaching, and building trust.Whether you're a new coach trying to build credibility or a seasoned one navigating the emotional rollercoaster of the season, this episode digs into the real meaning of each "C" and what it looks like to live it out—not just talk about it.Topics CoveredWhy competence today is as much about filtering noise as it is about knowledgeHow care becomes transformational only when it's planned, consistent, and intentionalThe role of constant in high-emotion moments and how it builds lasting trustWhy the best coaches do hard things the right way even when it hurtsSimple, practical systems you can implement now to care for your playersKey Quotes“Competence gets you the job. Systems of care and constant keep you there.” “You can’t fake care. And you can’t react well in chaos unless you’ve trained yourself to.” “Being great at one of the C’s is not enough. The challenge is integrating all three.”Mentioned in the EpisodeTim Elmore’s thoughts on authenticity and competencePost-game systems of care (90-second rule, locker room walks, gratitude in weight room)The power of handwritten notes, one-on-ones, and consistent body languageSubscribe & Learn More ▶ Get full access to all articles, podcasts, and resources at impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
In this "Best of" episode, we revisit the most compelling insights from June's conversations on coach development, support systems, and navigating the changing landscape of youth and high school sports.Highlights from the Episode:1. Why Coach Retention Matters Dr. Pete Van Mullem shares why coach turnover is more than a staffing issue—it’s tied to the overall health of sport participation and athlete experience. He unpacks how assessing coach readiness, providing structured support, and rethinking evaluation practices can keep great coaches in the game longer.2. Building Real Support Systems What does it look like for coaches to build intentional communities—not just for athletes, but for themselves? We explore how everyday habits, peer networks, and programs like Snow Valley Basketball School create lasting mentorship and mutual support across the coaching profession.3. Standards vs. Situations In a conversation between hosts Dustin and Rob, we dig into the gray areas coaches face when enforcing standards. What happens when team rules meet real-life nuance? Through personal stories, they explore fairness, consistency, and the emotional toll of tough decisions.4. Leading with Care We close the episode with a reflection on leadership, empathy, and what it means to discipline within a culture of care. How we respond to a breach of standards can reveal whether we've built true community or just compliance.For more coaching resources and episodes, visit: impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
Dr. Pete Van Mullen joins Rob to explore the intersection of coaching, teaching, and long-term retention. A former college basketball coach turned professor, Pete shares insights from his research on coach support systems, readiness assessments, and why teaching skills are essential for coaching success. The conversation offers practical takeaways for administrators and coaches looking to build sustainable, growth-centered programs.Topics include:Building coach support systemsAssessing coach readiness and developmentThe role of teaching in effective coachingRethinking “winning” in youth and high school sportsBooks from the Impactful Coaching Project:Coaching and Leading the 21st Century AthleteAthletic Department Leadership and Developing Coaches → Available on Amazon: Visit Rob Ramseyer's Author PageListen & Subscribe:impactfulcoachingproject.substack.combeyondcoaching.alitu.com (Spotify & Apple links)Learn more about Pete’s work at Sport Coach America.
Beyond Coaching Podcast - Best of May EpisodeIn this special "Best of May" episode of Beyond Coaching, Dr. Rob Ramseyer revisits some of the most insightful and impactful moments from recent episodes. With guest experts Mitch Hull, David Shapiro, and Dr. Wendy Moehler Seib, Kelli Wegerer, and also parts of a recent podcast interview Rob did talking about team unity and culture with Matt Barker on "Playing With a Purpose" podcast. We dive deep into the psychology of coaching, the science of stress, and the importance of trust and belonging in building cohesive teams. These discussions highlight the core principles of the Impactful Coaching Project and offer valuable takeaways for coaches, athletic directors, and leaders in sports.Resources:Impactful Coaching Project Substack (impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com) Subscribe to the Impactful Coaching Project Substack for weekly insights, strategies, and research that helps coaches coach the whole person. Stay updated with new content to support your journey in impactful coaching. Subscribe HereICP Books Books Leading and Coaching the 21st Century Athlete and Athletic Department Leadership in Developing Coaches offer actionable strategies for coaches, athletic directors, and leaders. These books provide a comprehensive framework for coaching in a holistic, effective way. Get the books on Amazon.Thank you for listening to this episode of Beyond Coaching. Beyond Coaching is a podcast developed and produced by the Impactful Coaching Project, with the support of Friends University. The Impactful Coaching Project seeks to develop coaches who prioritize the whole person, and it is a thought leader in coaching the 21st-century athlete. Visit our Substack for more information and resources.Listen to More Episodes: Catch up on past episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
In this short episode, Rob and Dustin take on one of the dilemmas coaches face: Would you bench a key player to uphold team standards—even if it means sacrificing a win?They reflect on real stories, personal missteps, and the evolution of their coaching philosophies—highlighting the difference between rules and standards, gray areas in leadership, and what fairness really looks like.Key themes include:Standards vs. winning: when consistency collides with competitive pressureWhy some rules get broken and others can’tHow coaches can apply care, honesty, and conviction during hard decisionsWhen bending once may cost you the seasonThe power of a team that cares—and holds each other accountableThis is a conversation about about leading with wisdom, maturity, and long-term perspective. Whether you're a veteran coach or just starting, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership decisions under pressure. “Do hard things”—but do them the right way.Mentioned:The Impactful Coaching Project → impactfulcoachingproject.substack.comICP Books on Coaching → Books on AmazonJoin the conversation Drop your questions or thoughts in the Substack comments—or email Rob or Dustin directly.Subscribe to the Impactful Coaching Project newsletter for weekly content on leadership, team culture, and coaching in the real world.