Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this Coach and Coordinator Podcast episode, host Keith Grabowski and Aaron Young, co founder of Coach Portal, dive into the evolving coaching job market and the challenges coaches face in advancing their careers. They discuss the importance of networking, the hidden nature of many job opportunities, and the role athletic directors play in hiring. Aaron shares his journey in coaching and how it led to the creation of Coach Portal, a platform designed to help coaches expand their networks, increase visibility, and be better prepared for career opportunities. More than just winning games, success in coaching is about building relationships, staying prepared, and positioning oneself for the right opportunities at the right time. Chapters The Evolution of Coaching Careers Navigating the Coaching Job Market Understanding Athletic Directors' Perspectives The Role of Coach Portal in Job Searches Enhancing Visibility and Networking for Coaches Preparing for Job Opportunities The Importance of Professional Development Leveraging Technology in Coaching Careers Actionable Steps for Coaches Future of Coach Portal and Career Control Sign-up for Coach Portal: Go to coach-portal.com Early sign-ups get six months free. Get a free month for referring other coaches. Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners: 10% Tool Kit   Coach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Keith Grabowski and Kevin Abrams explore the evolving landscape of coaching careers, emphasizing the role of relationships, networking, and professional visibility. They introduce Coach Portal, an innovative platform that equips coaches with real-time job market insights, mentorship, and career development resources. The discussion highlights common challenges coaches face in their job search, the importance of adaptability in an increasingly competitive field, and the necessity of preparation and strong presentation skills. Additionally, they examine the growing need for transparency in hiring processes and the advantages of leveraging technology for career advancement. This episode provides valuable insights for coaches seeking to navigate their careers strategically and position themselves for long-term success in a dynamic industry.   Chapters Kevin Abrams' Coaching Journey Understanding the Coaching Job Market Networking and Relationship Building The Evolution of Job Searches in Coaching Trends in High School Coaching Hiring The Importance of Fit in Coaching Positions Innovative Features of Coach Portal Preparing for Career Advancement Affordable Access to Coaching Resources Sign-up for Coach Portal: Go to coach-portal.com Early sign-ups get six months free. Get a free month for referring other coaches. Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners: 10% Tool Kit   Coach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Turnaround presented by CoachTube, host Michael Echaves is joined by Coach Steve Pyne, who shares his wealth of experience in transforming high school football programs, from Wilson High School to Central Catholic and now Union High School. He dives into the importance of building strong relationships, fostering accountability, and creating a positive team culture while navigating the challenges of coaching transitions. Coach Pyne reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career, emphasizing the value of adaptability, clear vision, and investing in players both on and off the field. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and the true purpose of coaching beyond the scoreboard. Chapters Coach Steve Pyne's Journey Turning Around Wilson High School Key Ingredients for Success at Wilson Transitioning to Central Catholic Lessons Learned from Transition Challenges Building a Winning Culture at Central Establishing a Mission and Vision for the Program Achieving Success and Overcoming Adversity Reflections on Complacency and Growth Building a Culture of Accountability Transitioning to Union High School Emphasizing Accountability and Relationships Setting Expectations and Standards Overcoming Challenges in Rebuilding Positive Relationships and Communication   Related episode: Three Keys to Building a Championship Program - Steve Pyne Support Our Sponsor – CoachTube Having the right resources and proven strategies is essential if you're working to turn a program around. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demand courses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helping you learn, grow, and develop your program.   If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand. Explore courses at CoachTube.com or contact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise.   Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tony Holler interviews Ric Arand, the highly successful head football coach at Lena Winslow High School, with an impressive record of 270-68. They discuss the impact of community support, the adoption of the 'Feed the Cats' sprint-based training philosophy, and the importance of a unified coaching staff. Ric shares insights on innovative practice structures, injury prevention strategies, and the challenges of competing against private schools. He also reflects on the role of family in coaching, the broader purpose of shaping athletes beyond the game, and the continuous pursuit of improvement in coaching practices. Tune in for an insightful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the lasting impact of coaching. Chapters Introduction to Ric Arand and Lena Winslow High School The Importance of Community and Coaching Culture The Influence of Great Coaches Building a Cohesive Coaching Staff The Open Book Philosophy in Coaching Adopting the Feed the Cats Mentality Transitioning to Sprint-Based Football The Impact of Sprint-Based Training on Performance Embracing Change in Coaching Methods The Wave Theory in Practice Creating Effective Practice Plans The Balance of Speed and Recovery Days Injury Prevention through Sprinting Conclusion and Future Directions Injury Management and Athletic Development RPR: Revolutionizing Athletic Performance Challenges of Private vs. Public School Athletics The Impact of Community Support on Athletics Balancing Family Life and Coaching Celebrating Achievements and Future Prospects Support our Partner: Titan GPS   Founded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight. Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.”   https://www.titansensor.com/   DM Titan: https://x.com/titansensor     Connect on X: Tony Holler @pntrack Ric Arand @LWHSPanters Coach and Coordinator @CoachKGrabowski Resources On CoachTube: Sprint-Based Football Bundle Feed the Cats Football Bundle TFC Sprint-Based Football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Turnaround powered by CoachTube, Coach Brett Mertens takes us inside the playbook of rebuilding struggling football programs. From starting from scratch to building a championship mindset, he shares the strategies, challenges, and leadership lessons that fueled success at Crean Lutheran and Montrose High School. Coach Mertens highlights the power of relationships, community support, and a strong coaching philosophy in shaping winning teams—on and off the field. Whether you're a coach or athletic director, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, vision, and the true impact of coaching.   Chapters  Introduction to Coach Brett Mertens Investing in Relationships: The Key to Success Turning Point: Achieving a Winning Record Transitioning to Montrose: New Challenges Ahead Building Community Support: The Foundation of Success Vision and Commitment: Creating a Lasting Impact Strategic Shifts: Adapting to Win Final Thoughts: The Importance of Relationships Support Our Sponsor – CoachTube If you're working to turn a program around, having the right resources and proven strategies is essential. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demand courses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helping you learn, grow, and develop your program. If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand. Explore courses at CoachTube.com or contact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Turnaround Series, host Michael Echaves sits down with Charlie TeGantvoort, a coach with a track record of rebuilding struggling programs and turning them into winners. Coach T shares his approach to building relationships, changing team culture, and creating a winning mindset—all key elements in a program's transformation. From inheriting teams with years of losing seasons to leading them to playoff victories and championships, Coach T details the strategies, leadership principles, and culture shifts that made success possible. He emphasizes the power of one-on-one connections, how to handle negative mindsets, and why winning starts before the first game is even played. Whether you're a coach looking to revive a struggling program or someone fascinated by leadership and culture change, this episode delivers valuable lessons on commitment, strategy, and resilience. Topics Covered The importance of relationship-building in a turnaround How to change a losing mindset into a winning one Strategic scheduling to build confidence and momentum The role of administration, teachers, and community support How to handle negative attitudes and keep a team moving forward The importance of coaching staff and leadership structure Support Our Sponsor – CoachTube If you're working to turn a program around, having the right resources and proven strategies is essential. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demand courses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helping you learn, grow, and develop your program. If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand. Explore courses at CoachTube.com or contact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Sprint Based Football presented by Titan Sensors, international speed coach Chris Korfist shares his expertise in speed training, particularly in football, and its pivotal role in an athlete’s performance. He discusses the remarkable speed transformation of NFL player David Montgomery and highlights the impact of cutting-edge technology like the 1080 sprint machine in measuring and enhancing speed. Chris challenges traditional strength training methods, advocating for a more targeted approach that prioritizes speed development, effective warmups, and injury prevention. He also explains the importance of energy management through his "jelly bean" analogy, emphasizing that athletes must be strategic in their training to maximize performance. Focusing on quality over quantity, Chris provides valuable insights into how optimizing muscle function at various speeds can lead to superior athletic results. Chapters Introduction to Chris Korfist and His Journey David Montgomery's Transformation The 1080 Sprint Machine: A Game Changer Understanding Speed Development and Training Potential NFL Career and Coaching Philosophy RPR and Its Impact on Performance Muscle Function and Injury Prevention The Role of Strength Training in Speed The Nature of Injuries in High-Intensity Sports The Importance of Sprinting in Football Training Training Big Athletes for Speed Max Velocity Training for All Athletes Sprint-Based Football Philosophy Evaluating High School Weightlifting Programs The Limitations of Traditional Strength Training Strength Training vs. Sport-Specific Power Development The Impact of Warmups and Practice Volumes Rethinking Conditioning and Energy Management The Role of Coaches in Athlete Development Exploring Charisma in Coaching and Leadership Support our Partner: Titan GPS Founded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight. Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.”   https://www.titansensor.com/   DM Titan: https://x.com/titansensor     Connect on X: Tony Holler @pntrack Garrett Mueller @SHSCoachMueller   Learn more from Chris Korfist on CoachTube Resources On CoachTube: Sprint-Based Football Bundle Feed the Cats Football Bundle TFC Sprint-Based Football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Student of the Game podcast, Coach And Coordinator Studio 2 interviews Brandon Labath, offensive line coach and run game coordinator at the University of St. Thomas. Labath shares his coaching journey, emphasizing the importance of being a lifelong student of the game, networking with fellow coaches, and continuously refining his approach. He discusses transitioning to coaching the offensive line, integrating new concepts into existing systems, and enhancing successful plays by keeping defenses guessing. The conversation highlights the significance of self-analysis, offseason adjustments, and instilling a run-off-the-football mentality in players. Labath also stresses the value of building strong relationships with athletes and maintaining an adaptable mindset in coaching.   Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy Brandon Labath's Unique Background Being a Student of the Game Networking and Learning Tools Transitioning to Offensive Line Coaching Integrating New Concepts into Existing Systems Enhancing Successful Concepts Self-Analysis vs. External Study Adjusting Offseason Processes Running Off the Football Support our Partners: Modern Football Technology Signature Championship Rings Titan GPS   Resources from Caleb Corrill: Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation Distortion Post Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Sprint-Based Football presented by Titan GPS, Tony Holler sits down with Erik Becker, head coach at Daniel Hand High School in Madison, Connecticut, who has led his team to a state championship with an impressive 23-2 record. They dive into the principles of sprint-based football, exploring Becker’s journey as both a player and coach, the impact of speed training, and the structure of an effective weekly practice. Beyond the X’s and O’s, they discuss character development, athlete recovery, and the benefits of multi-sport participation. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how speed, strategy, and a holistic coaching approach shapes championship-level teams. Chapters: Coaching Philosophy and Influences Sprint-Based Football Training Weekly Practice Structure Conditioning and Speed Metrics The Importance of Speed in Football Big Kids and Speed Training Game Readiness and Conditioning Rethinking Conditioning in Football The Importance of Recovery Innovative Coaching Strategies The Role of Speed in Football The Truck Stick Metric Character Building in Coaching Support our Partner: Titan GPS Founded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight.  Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.”   https://www.titansensor.com/   DM Titan: https://x.com/titansensor Support our Partner: The Headset App Football coaches are completely rethinking their headset systems. They are using The Headset App to increase transition speeds at practice, give quarterbacks real-time feedback from the press box, and more.  Now players, GAs, backups, signal-callers, and training staff can access the necessary communications. Coaches are developing new hacks to improve their daily practice and gameplay, which traditional systems cannot do. You will pay a fraction of the cost compared to traditional systems…spend that budget to improve other areas of your Sprint-Based Football program. Learn more: https://theheadsetapp.com/football/   Connect on X: Tony Holler @pntrack Erik Becker @ErickBecker42 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Student of the Game, we sit down with Tim Souza, Offensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator at Southern Oregon University. A dedicated student of the game, Tim shares his expertise on coaching, communication, and the ever-evolving landscape of football strategy. We dive into his coaching journey, the power of effective teaching, and the importance of building meaningful relationships in the profession. Tim also discusses integrating new concepts into existing systems, refining the film review process, and understanding player behavior as a key aspect of coaching. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this insightful conversation is packed with valuable lessons to elevate your approach to the game. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Connections Tim Souza's Coaching Journey The Importance of Being a Student of the Game Exploring Learning Mediums in Coaching Film Review and Self-Assessment Process Finding Your Coaching Identity Building a Flexible Coaching System Integrating New Ideas into Existing Systems Enhancing Effective Concepts Balancing Installation and Player Understanding The Importance of Pausing for Mastery Support our Partners: Modern Football Technology Signature Championship Rings Titan GPS   Resources from Caleb Corrill: Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation Distortion Post Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Student of the Game - A Coaching Odyssey - Chet Walters In this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb sits down with Chet Walters, head coach of Conrad Schools of Science in Delaware, for an in-depth conversation on coaching, strategy, and continuous growth. Chet shares his journey, detailing how his passion for learning has shaped his coaching philosophy. He discusses the challenges of implementing new strategies, evaluating concepts, and navigating the high school football landscape. Chapters Coaching Journey Student of the Game Mentality Information Gathering and Implementation Implementing Option Routes in High School Football The Wizard Receiver: A Case Study in Skill Development Commitment to a Scheme: Overcoming Doubts and Challenges Evaluating Success: The Importance of Reflection and Adjustment Less is More: Focusing on Core Concepts for Improvement Teaching the Game: The Role of Education in Player Development Backyard Awareness: Instilling Game Sense in Players Artistry in Coaching: Embracing Creativity and Learning The Process of Improvement: Analyzing Past Performance Finding Balance: Knowing When to Simplify and Focus The Journey of a Coach: Learning from Experience and Growth Support our Partners: Modern Football Technology Signature Championship Rings Titan GPS Resources from Caleb Corrill: Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation Distortion Post Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we introduce the Sprint-Based Football series, emphasizing its holistic approach to coaching and athlete development. Keith Grabowski and the host of the series Tony Holler discuss the movement's evolution, the importance of creating a positive coaching environment, and the individualized nature of coaching strategies. They highlight the significance of a feedback loop in coaching, where both players and coaches thrive in a supportive atmosphere. The series aims to explore various topics related to sprint-based football, featuring insights from different coaches and experts in the field. Takeaways The Sprint-Based Football series aims to provide diverse coaching perspectives. This movement is more than just a speed program; it's holistic. Creating a positive environment enhances player performance. The feedback loop is crucial for both players and coaches. Health and well-being are prioritized in coaching practices. Individualized coaching approaches are essential for success. Gamifying practice makes it more enjoyable for players. Coaching is not a one-size-fits-all system; it requires adaptation. The movement is gaining traction and proving effective in competitions. Collaboration and sharing ideas among coaches are vital for growth. Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners: 10% Tool Kit Coach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Best of 2025 of Coach and Coordinator Network, we revisit one of the most impactful conversations released in 2025. Our discussion with Kurt Hester on the Sprint-Based Football podcast, hosted by Tony Holler. Kurt Hester was clear in his beliefs and deeply committed to doing what was right for athletes, even when it meant challenging long-held traditions. Coach Kurt Hester’s passing was a profound loss for the football coaching community. He was known for his unmatched energy, authenticity, and deep care for athletes and coaches alike. We are proud that we were able to share his insights, passion, and perspective through multiple episodes, preserving his voice and lessons for coaches everywhere. Kurt’s impact lives on through the players he inspired, the coaches he mentored, and the standard he set for serving this profession the right way. In this episode, Kurt breaks down his approach to football preparation, explaining why chasing numbers often fails to translate to performance on the field. He emphasizes the importance of speed, skill training and athlete health over volume-based conditioning and weight-room philosophies. Drawing from his experience across multiple college programs, Kurt shares why intent and execution matter more than trends or approval. The conversation explores strength and conditioning through a performance lens: covering speed training, deceleration, change of direction, recovery, and injury prevention while reinforcing that preparation should always serve the athlete, not the system. Kurt’s perspective is conviction-driven, experience-based, and focused on building better players through smarter training. This Best of 2025 selection also coincides with the release of the Coach and Coordinator AI Strength and Conditioning Insight Companion, built entirely from Kurt Hester’s podcast episodes and a full clinic presentation he delivered for the community. Designed to preserve and apply his thinking without speculation or outside interpretation, this episode stands as both a tribute and a lasting learning resource for coaches committed to pushing the profession forward. Chapters Why Kurt Hester’s Voice Mattered in 2025 Challenging Tradition in Football Preparation Speed and Skill Over Numbers Readiness Versus Volume Rethinking Strength and Conditioning Injury Prevention and Athlete Health Deceleration and Change of Direction Data, GPS, and Knowing Instead of Guessing Discipline, Accountability, and Culture Preserving Kurt Hester’s Legacy Through AI Connect on X: Tony Holler: @pntrack Titan Sensors: @titansensor Support our Partner: Titan GPS Founded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight.  Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.” https://www.titansensor.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Best of 2025 of Coach and Coordinator Network, we revisit one of the most practical conversations of the year, featuring AJ Smith, former UFL and XFL offensive coordinator. As coaches move from the end of one season into the offseason, this episode zeroes in on the hardest questions to answer: what stays, what gets cut, and what truly fits the players you’ll line up with next season. AJ walks through his approach to evaluating personnel honestly, studying the game across levels, and narrowing an offense down to what can be executed at a high level. The conversation emphasizes why effective offenses are built on fit, rhythm, and timing. The answer isn’t adding, it’s removing with purpose so what remains fits together on game day. They also explore how analytics, when used intentionally, can support quarterback evaluation and offensive decision-making without adding unnecessary workload. Throughout the discussion, AJ explains how simplification and clear standards aren’t shortcuts. They’re the reason execution holds up week after week. This Best of 2025 re-air is paired with the Coach and Coordinator AI Companion built exclusively around AJ Smith’s conversations, designed to help coaches apply his decision-making frameworks, execution standards, and analytics-informed thinking within their own programs. For coaches preparing for the offseason and looking to bring clarity into evaluation, teaching, and offensive structure, this episode is an essential listen. Coach and Coordinator AI: AJ Smith Structure & Decision Companion Chapters Preparing for the Next Season Evaluating Roster Changes and Personnel Fit The Impact of the Transfer Portal Cutting the Playbook Without Losing Continuity Offensive Fit and Execution Standards Timing and Rhythm in Offensive Design Simplifying Practice and Teaching Plans Using Analytics for Offensive Clarity Quarterback Evaluation and Decision-Making Applying AJ Smith’s Frameworks with AI Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski AJ Smith: @AustinJamesXFL Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Best of 2025 episode of the Coach and Coordinator Network, we revisit one of the year’s most impactful conversations from Alert the Post, featuring Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. The episode stood out for its clear, practical breakdown of how modern NFL offenses create clarity for quarterbacks and skill players amid increasingly complex defensive structures. LaFleur explains how offensive structure — ranging from progression philosophy to run-game efficiency and play-action design helps players process faster, play with confidence, and execute consistently. Rather than emphasizing volume or complexity, the conversation highlights why clarity and shared teaching language matter more than carrying more plays. Hosted by Bobby Peters, the discussion focuses on why concepts work, not just what they look like on the board, making it especially valuable for coaches at every level seeking to translate pro-level ideas into teachable systems. This Best of 2025 re-air also coincides with the release of the Coach and Coordinator AI Alert the Post Decision-Making Companion — a tool built entirely from Alert the Post conversations to help coaches evaluate structure, spacing, leverage, and quarterback decision-making. For coaches pursuing cleaner offense, better communication, and faster decisions, this episode is an essential listening. Chapters Why This Episode Made the Best of 2025 Offensive Clarity in Modern NFL Systems Helping Quarterbacks Play Faster Pure Progression Philosophy Run Game Efficiency and Structure Play-Action Design Against Complex Defenses Teaching Language and Repetition Simplifying Offense Without Losing Efficiency Alert the Post Framework and Decision-Making Technology and AI as Coaching Companions Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Bobby Peters: @b_peters12 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Best of 2025 of Coach and Coordinator Network, we revisit one of the most impactful conversations from The Turnaround series. The episode featuring high school football coach Steve Pyne. Originally aired in January 2025, this conversation stood out for its experience-driven look at what real program turnarounds actually require. Across stops at Wilson High School, Ida B. Wells, Central Catholic, and now Union High School, Coach Pyne shares what it takes to rebuild struggling programs from the ground up. Rather than focusing on schemes or shortcuts, he breaks down the importance of accountability, communication, relationships, and disciplined standards, especially when wins don’t come immediately. Coach Pyne reflects on mistakes from earlier in his career, how his leadership philosophy evolved, and why putting kids first must always come before chasing results. The discussion highlights how setting clear expectations, building trust, and maintaining consistency can transform culture long before it shows up on the scoreboard. This episode also anchors The Turnaround series, which now powers the Coach and Coordinator AI Turnaround Companion — an applied learning tool built from these conversations to help coaches turn insight into action within their own programs. For any coach stepping into a rebuild or navigating the middle of one, this is a conversation worth revisiting, sharing, and applying piece by piece. Chapters: Why This Episode Became a Best of 2025 Coach Steve Pyne’s Rebuild Journey Taking Over Struggling Programs Accountability Over Schemes Building Relationships and Trust Establishing Mission, Vision, and Standards Resetting Culture During Transition Learning From Early Leadership Mistakes Communication as a Coaching Skill Putting Kids First During a Rebuild Sustaining Standards Without Immediate Wins Modern Rebuilds and AI as a Coaching Companion Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Steve Pyne: @CoachPyne67 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Best of 2025 of Coach and Coordinator Network, we revisit one of the most impactful conversations of the year. The pilot episode of The Think Tank, first aired in January 2025. This roundtable brings together experienced football coaches to dive deep into offensive strategy and how coaches can make continuous adjustments against always evolving defensive trends, without losing their identity. The discussion explores how building a common language within a program improves communication, teaching efficiency, and on-field execution. The coaches break down offensive structure, protection issues, and personnel usage. Highlighting that great teaching drives player development. Throughout the episode, the panel shares applicable insights on walkthroughs, technology in coaching, and season-to-season reflection as tools for growth. As a foundational Think Tank conversation, this episode set the tone for collective learning, intentional strategy, and authentic dialogue, making it a clear standout and a worthy Best of 2025 selection. Think Tank: Offensive Structure & Teaching AI Companion Chapters Why This Became a Best of 2025 Episode Offensive Structure and Coaching Identity Integrating Coaches and Building a Common Language Diagnosing Passing Game and Protection Issues Adapting to Defensive Trends Innovation Without Losing Identity Teaching Option Routes and Player Understanding Flexibility and Personnel-Driven Adjustments Balancing Complexity and Execution Teaching, Walkthroughs, and Feedback The Think Tank Approach to Learning and Collaboration Modern Football, Technology, and AI as Coaching Companions Keep up with all things from Coach and Coordinator visit https://coachandcoordinator.com or follow @CoachKGrabowski on X About Modern Football Technology Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit⁠ www.modernfootball.com. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Coach and Coordinator, Keith Grabowski sits down with Cris Reisert to explore how the Kaizen philosophy can transform coaching, team culture, and player development. Drawing from Reisert’s experience at Tiffin University and Gardner-Webb University, the conversation centers on building programs through Kaizen - continuous improvement, accountability, and shared ownership. Reisert breaks down how metrics, evaluation, and clear standards help teams track growth and reinforce expectations, emphasizing that quality and improvement are everyone’s responsibility. They discuss the importance of feedback and adapting systems to fit the people within the program, not the other way around. This episode highlights how making a big deal out of small wins, reframing mistakes as learning opportunities, and serving others with humility can create a positive, growth-oriented environment. It’s a practical and philosophical discussion for coaches looking to build sustainable success through culture, consistency, and a commitment to getting better every day. Chapters Introduction to Kaizen in Coaching Cris Reisert's Journey with Kaizen Implementing Kaizen in Team Culture Metrics and Evaluation for Continuous Improvement Accountability and Standards in Practice Fostering Collaboration and Feedback Adapting Schemes and Strategies Creating an Inclusive Environment The Importance of Ownership Final Thoughts on Embracing Kaizen Coach and Coordinator AI - Kaizen Companion Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Cris Reisert: @CoachReisert Related on Coach and Coordinator Network: The Kaizen Coaching Blue Print + Kaizen Companion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every coach talks about “The Process,” but few can define it—let alone build it. In this episode, Keith Grabowski introduces a new blueprint rooted in Kaizen, the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement that transformed global manufacturing. Drawing on personal stories from his early career in an automotive factory, Keith explores how Kaizen’s principles—total quality control, system thinking, and empowered people—can reshape how coaches build, lead, and develop their programs. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start improving, this is where your process begins. Dig into the episode & apply to your coaching with our AI Companion: Coach and Coordinator AI - Kaizen Episode Companion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Coach and Coordinator, Keith Grabowski is joined by Jay Paterno for an honest conversation about the rapidly changing landscape of college football. They break down how the rise of NIL and the transfer portal is reshaping recruiting, player retention, and the day-to-day reality of coaching. Paterno shares deep insights into why emotional intelligence has become essential for today’s coaches, impacting everything from team cohesion to player development and culture building. The discussion also explores the emotional strain coaches face, both personally and within their families, as expectations and pressures continue to climb. Together, they examine honesty in recruiting, the influence of money on the sport, and why mental health must become a priority for every program. Looking ahead, Keith and Jay reflect on what the future of college football may require and why there is still hope in the next generation of coaches who remain committed to leading with integrity and purpose. Chapters: The Evolving Landscape of College Football The Pressure of the Transfer Portal and NIL Emotional Intelligence in Coaching Building a Culture of Honesty and Accountability The Emotional Toll of Coaching The Impact of Money in Coaching Navigating Societal Issues in Sports The Future of College Football Hope for the Next Generation of Coaches Introduction to Coaching Insights Promoting Coach Paterno's Book and Resources Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠ Jay Paterno: ⁠@JayPaterno Check out Coach Paterno's book: Blitzed! The All-Out Pressure of College Football's New Era Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices