Coaching Culture

Ever wondered what really goes on during halftime, and if those intense locker room talks actually work? In this insightful episode, we sit down with Eamon Devlin, founder of Minute Nine , a consultancy revolutionizing how sports teams communicate under pressure. Eamon, a former lawyer, shares the personal story that led him to analyze halftime communication and why traditional "blow-ups" often do...

JP Nerbun and Nate Sanderson shared personal anecdotes from their coaching careers, discussing initial successes, humorous mistakes, and impactful learning experiences. They reflected on how their coaching philosophies evolved from a naive, highly intense approach to a more balanced understanding of their role, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of their early methods. The hosts...

In Part 2, Coach JT Toczynski dives deeper into the specific culture-building activities he implements with his high school basketball team. He emphasizes the importance of fostering vulnerability, community engagement, and mental toughness. JT shares details about "speed dating" for new players, "hero and hardship" circles for deeper connection, annual community service at a s...

This podcast episode features an insightful conversation with high school basketball coach Jonathan "JT" Toczynski, tracing his evolution from a transactional to a transformational coach. Starting as a freshman coach in 2018, JT shares his initial struggles, pivotal "aha" moments, and intentional strategies for building a thriving team culture centered on joy, care, and trust. His journey highligh...

In this episode of The Coaching Culture Podcast, hosts JP Nerbun, Nate Sanderson, and Betsy Butterick tackle the pervasive "win-aholic" mentality in sports. They explore the inherent tension coaches often feel between the relentless pursuit of victory and the deeper purpose of athlete development and creating positive experiences. The discussion highlights that while winning is integral to sports,...

What does it truly take to build a national championship program? Join us for an incredibly candid conversation with Rob Dow , head coach of the NCAA National Championship-winning Vermont Men's Soccer team. In this powerful episode, Coach Dow pulls back the curtain on how he cultivated a culture of unwavering belief, even when it meant "shaking the underdog" mentality out of his play...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rob, the head coach of the University of Vermont's national championship soccer team . In this episode, Rob takes us behind the scenes of their incredible journey, revealing that their success was built on far more than just tactics. Discover how Rob fosters a deep connection between his team and the vibrant Vermont community , viewing UVM Athletics a...

This episode of the Coaching Culture podcast, hosted by JP Nerbun, Nate Sanderson, and Betsy Butterrick, delves into a profound distinction: team being vs. team building . Inspired by their recent transformative TOC retreat, the hosts argue that true team connection and growth emerge not from elaborate team-building activities, but from intentionally created time and space for individuals to simpl...

Part two of our conversation with Graham Roxburgh, the founder of Team Up, an organization that leverages the power of sport to enhance community development projects around the world. Graham shares the inspiring origin story of Team Up, born from a desire to move beyond simply playing games to actively assisting local leaders in their efforts to transform their communities. The conversation highl...

Join us as we delve into the coaching journey of Graham Roxburgh, who built the Trinity Western University women's soccer program into a national powerhouse. He shares the crucial early steps, the power of vision and recruitment, and the importance of a "more than soccer" mentality. Essential listening for coaches looking to elevate their programs! Subscribe to the Team Culture Toolbox Newsletter...

Is true growth about shedding your old self, or refining what's already there? JP Nerbun, Nate Sanderson, and Betsy Butterick dive deep into this fascinating question on the Coaching Culture Podcast. Using the intense spotlight on coaches like Dan Hurley as a springboard, we discuss how coaches and leaders can improve problematic behaviors while preserving the passion and drive that makes them...

JP Nerbun and Nate Sanderson sit down with renowned Elite Performance Coach and author, Alex Auerbach, PhD , for a practical and insightful discussion on the psychology of coaching high-performing teams. In this episode, you'll learn actionable strategies to: Identify the 3-5 Key Behaviors that truly drive success for your athletes and team. Cultivate a Winning Mindset by understanding and instill...

What separates good teams from championship-winning teams? Often, it's their ability to perform under pressure. In this episode, we uncover the strategies used to guide a team to a state title, focusing on the mental and emotional aspects of high-stakes competition. We explore how to address team nervousness, reframe the concept of pressure, and keep athletes focused on the present moment. If...

Navigating the complexities of coaching today's athletes? Join JP, Betsy, and Nate as they answer your burning questions on building strong relationships (even when it's tough!), effectively managing player feedback without losing your mind, realistic self-care strategies for busy coaches during the season, and even share some of their own evolving perspectives on coaching culture. Get rea...

On this week's "Ask Us Anything," the Coaching Culture crew tackles YOUR real-world coaching questions: How do you balance coaching athletes with different levels of dedication to the sport? As a new coach, how do you set higher standards and build a strong culture without a proven track record? What are the best ways to build a powerful team culture when you have limited time and re...

This episode of the Coaching Culture podcast features a conversation with Martin Wilson, a seasoned ski coach, who shares his journey from a reactive to an intentional leader. He emphasizes the importance of athlete-centric coaching, focusing on understanding individual needs, fostering autonomy, and building a strong team culture. Martin’s insights are applicable to leaders in any field, highligh...

In this insightful podcast episode, Martin Wilson, a seasoned ski coach, shares his evolution from a coach driven by ego and reputation to one focused on athlete-centered development. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each athlete's unique needs, tailoring coaching approaches, and fostering genuine connections. Martin advocates for prioritizing the athlete's experience and grow...

This powerful episode of the Coaching Culture Podcast illuminates the nuanced dance of leadership, exploring the vital tension between radical responsibility and the art of empowering others. JP Nerbun, Betsy Butterick, and Nate Sanderson delve into the heart of what it means to lead with both strength and grace, challenging the notion that "extreme ownership" can equate to self-blame. T...

Our guest, Tiffany Gaskell, a seasoned executive coach, emphasizes the importance of asking powerful questions, creating a learner-centric environment, and resisting the urge to provide all the answers. We explore the power of curiosity in feedback conversations, the detrimental impact of blame on learning, and the need for psychological safety to foster open communication. Discover how co-creatin...

In this episode we're joined by Tiffany Gaskell, an expert in performance coaching and leadership development from Performance Consultants. We delve into the fascinating evolution of coaching, tracing its roots back to sports and the groundbreaking work of Sir John Whitmore and Tim Gallwey. Tiffany debunks common misconceptions about coaching, highlighting the power of facilitating self-discov...

Tired of feeling like you're always doing, but never getting ahead? In this episode of The Coaching Culture Podcast, we explore the power of "being" over "doing." Coaches Betsy and JP discuss how to break free from the productivity trap and find more fulfillment in your work by focusing on presence and intentionality. They share practical tips and strategies for integrating...

Join us as we chat with Tracey Leone (Bates), assistant coach of the UNC Women's Soccer team, fresh off their incredible 2024 National Championship victory! We delve into the crucial role of culture in building a winning team, exploring how Tracey cultivates values like hard work, competitive spirit, and joy within her players. From the infamous Cooper run to the evolution of her coaching phil...

Join us as we sit down with Tracy Bates, former UNC and US Women's National Team star and current UNC assistant coach, for a deep dive into her incredible journey in the world of soccer. In this episode, Tracy shares invaluable insights from her playing days, including: The importance of leading by example and fostering a positive team environment. Her evolution as a leader, from youth soccer to t...

Are you a coach feeling the pressure of "walking on eggshells" in today's sports environment? Do you fear parent complaints, athlete accusations, or even investigations? In this episode of The Coaching Culture Podcast, JP Nerbun and Betsy Butterick dive deep into the challenges coaches face in navigating a culture of fear and overprotection. They explore the rise of CYA (cover your a...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Tracey Fuchs, Northwestern Field Hockey Head Coach and USA Field Hockey assistant coach, as she shares her expertise on building a championship culture, fostering trust, and navigating the dynamic landscape of college athletics. This episode delves into the critical role of open communication, empowering coaching staff, and helping athletes recognize the...