Coach Kub Podcast: Recent Episodes
Coach Kub
When it comes to implementing "consistency" in our lives, I suggest starting with these plans of action:
1) DEFINE it for yourself
2) Start in just one avenue of your life
3) START TODAY!
For more Coach Kub content, click here --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Feel like you don't have enough time to do the things you want to do? Think again....
In the book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, John Mark Comer offered this perspective:
"The average American reads two hundred to four hundred words per minute. At that speed, we could all read 200 books a year in just 417 hours. But can you guess how much time the average American spends on social media each year? The number is 705 hours. TV? 2,737.5 hours!"
So is the reality that we don't have enough time, or perhaps allocating that time poorly?
Happy Thursday #TEAM
Check out more Coach Kub content HERE --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Morning Checklist:
Start the Morning SLOW! Coffee, Pray, Read Stretch and Walk the Dog Read the News/Social Media & Breakfast WIN THE DAY!
Check out more Coach Kub content HERE --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye: then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye" - Luke 6: 41-42
My challenge to us this week is to concern ourselves with our own imperfections before looking at anyone else's. Where can we be better? Where am I coming up short? Where am I not fulfilling my mission?
Let's make that happen this week TEAM - Time To Work!!! God Bless.
LINKS --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Can we keep achieving things on the way to the unachievable?" - Matthew McConaughey
Mistakes will be made this week- we will fall short in some capacity. May we first FIND THE LESSON in the shortcoming, then keep it moving!
LINKS --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"What you put into your mind in the first hour of your day sets the tone of your mind for the rest of it" - Brian Tracy
Protecting this time for yourself is one the keys that has unlocked tremendous growth in my life, and I know it can for you as well. My morning routine includes:
1) Walk The Dog
2) Pray/Read The Bible
3) Read
4) Work-Out
While this type of start does not guarantee anything, it certainly increases the chances of making the next 12-16 hours that much better yourself. Make it a GREAT one y'all - Happy Friday!
Links --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Sometimes a shift in perspective is all we need to move ourselves in the right direction.
Perhaps it is in our jobs, workout out relationships, etc.......The perspective we take on often determines the success and happiness we find as a result. What type of perspectives are you taking on in the different arenas of your life?
Make it a GREAT day my friends - God Bless!!!
LINKS --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"It is not so much the lack of technical information that holds us back, but more the lack of self-confidence"
Growth is found when we step outside of ourselves and into the unknown. How do we find the courage to do so? I would suggest the following:
1) Be purposeful in seeking out situations to find small wins and stack them up over time.
2) Find ways to build tangible and intangible skills every single day
3) Find people and/or communities that will aid in this mission
Make it a GREAT day y'all - God Bless!
LINKS --->>> https://linktr.ee/coachkub
A few weeks ago I had the great fortune to be on The Proper Millennial Podcast and chopped it up about everything coaching, life experiences, and best ways to learn and grow in all realms of life. BIG TIME thank you to Kosta Telegadas for having me on and exposing my brand.
Happy Tuesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
In order to achieve a peace of mind, one way that may help is making sure the effort and work that we execute matches the height of our goals. How can we be better in this approach over the next week? Happy Wednesday Y'all! Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
1 Corinthians 13: 1-13
If we were to find ourselves with all of the talent in the world, but failed to love others, then what would be the point?
Today's episode sheds light on this perspective by turning to the Bible for the perfect answer.
God Bless Y'all! Happy Tuesday!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Movement is the foundation of stillness" - Lao Tzu
Feelings of anxiousness, restlessness, or uneasiness can easily creep into our lives. When we find our headspace filled with these types of feelings, what tactics can we use to work our way out of them? Through research and experience, one way that has helped me find clarity and peace in these times is MOVEMENT.
Happy Wednesday Y'all - God Bless!
Social Media - https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Guest of the Day: Kevin DeShazo
Kevin is a speaker, leadership coach and consultant, social media expert, AND author. His most recent book "Keep Chopping Wood - An Ordinary Approach To Achieving Extraordinary Success" is sitting atop of the Amazon charts and has already helped numerous groups and organizations on their leadership and personal journeys.
Today we are discussing why he chose to write this book, what that process looked like, and how we can establish better and more meaningful habits into our lives. Thanks Kevin!
Happy Friday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Stat of the Day: 40% OF OUR DAYS are consisted of habits........
What are we doing with that 40% to ensure that it is as beneficial as possible for ourselves and those around us; powerful perspective that I believe will help us be more purposeful in our pursuits this week.
Happy Tuesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
When it comes to social media, how can we optimize our engagement approach? How often should we post? What kind of content should I be putting out? What platforms should I be utilizing?
The team at Wave Media did an awesome job at providing tactics to help us take our social media game to the next level, as well how to ensure quality and consistency as the main component of your strategy.
Happy Thursday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"The message never changes, but the messenger does"
Why does our voice matter? If I'm not reaching millions of people, is it even worth it to share my thoughts and put myself out there?
Happy Tuesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Mental health is something that affects us all in some capacity. Today we are shedding light on an organization that is playing a significant part in bringing awareness and education to the masses when it comes to mental illness.
Please check out TheNique.com to learn more about this effort and how you can help their mission.
Happy Wednesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Whatever you focus on is what you feel" - Tony Robbins
Are we focusing on what we can or can't control? Are we focusing on what we have or don't have? Are we focusing on the past, present, or future? How we answer these questions probably determines a lot when it comes to how I feel on a consistent basis.
As we progress into this week, I challenge us all to FOCUS ON HOW WE WANT TO FEEL. If we can make this a strong habit in our lives, it is my great belief that we will enhance our experiences and get the most out of each and every day.
Happy Monday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Real Estate" can be a daunting term. What is it? How do I get in the game? What does that process look like?
Riley and Sam break down the game into a few practical, simple steps that WE CAN ALL TAKE today, and see if the market is right for you.
Make it a great weekend y'all - God Bless!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
What kind of value does TikTok bring to the table? Is it beneficial or is it detrimental? How can I gain more traction on this platform.Â
The Wave Media Company's Brandon Malinowski chops it up with me to discuss these questions, and see what viewpoints make the most sense in trying to find some answers.
Happy Wednesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Man is pushed by drives, but pulled by values" - Ego Is The Enemy
When it comes to majority of our efforts, where should we put them? Is it our pursuit of money, mate, status, rank, etc.? Or rather in our deep-rooted values that will pull us wherever we choose to establish them?
Happy Monday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Why Real Estate? Why now? How do I get some skin in the game? Riley and Sam join us to share their insights into this market and why they have chosen this path.
I have been preaching for the past couple of months to be purposeful in pursuing new avenues of learning and skill, and this will do just that for a lot of us today.
Happy Friday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
What is the top? What does hard work have to do with failing? How high should I be reaching for myself?
Monday motivation featuring Bennie Fowler. Let's Get It
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
The role of teachers and administrators during this trying time has been exposed in ways that have forced everyone to respect their efforts and contributions more than ever. Kelly Cline is at the forefront of innovating and pushing through with this new normal to ensure that her students are still getting the most out of their education, and doing so with incredible outlook and positivity.
On today's episode we covered how identifying your "WHY" is so necessary, the role positivity plays in her life, and why adapting and growing every year has helped her climb the ranks both professionally and personally.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Knowledge is great. Learning is great. Conversation is great. All of these entities can provide us foundations for incredible feats, but too much of these efforts and too little ACTION does nothing for us. How can we better tread the line of learning versus action???....
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Comfortable situations = opportunities for ego to build. How are you challenging yourself to find both growth, as well as humility along your journey?.......
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Today's episode comes to us from Fleece & Thank You and Co-Founder Nick Kristock. We hit on why challenge is so imperative in helping us transform into whom we are to become, what athletics has taught me along the way, and why our foundation as HUMAN BEINGS needs to be constantly assessed. Appreciate you Nick!!!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"At some time we have to implement what we have learned. It isn't enough to acquire, but rather utilize for the better."
How do you learn best? What are you doing/planning to apply that newly acquired knowledge? What are some foundational characteristics that should always be a constant in your life?
Big time stuff from a BIG time dude! Lock it in, and let's get better TOGETHER. Happy Thursday Y'all!
Social Media âĄď¸ https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Your foundation will determine your destiny" Â What are we doing with this time to structure our foundation on the right substance? How does simplifying your perspectives help you move forward in life? Do the people you interact really matter?
I LOVE THIS MAN RIGHT HERE. Biggest take-away from today: tell people you LOVE them more.
Happy Thursday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"Competence and other's level of belief in you determines your impact."
Have you thought about "WHY" you operate in the way that you do? What about the best advice you've ever received? Niko provides incredible insight into his approach to these questions and how the influences in his life helped form him into who he is today.
Happy Wednesday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Is consistency a staple in your life? How can you better develop your mental toughness? What does it take to go from Walk-On to All-American?Â
Kenny Willekes joins us today to shed light on these  topics and provide context on what his journey has taught him.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
This week's format: 5 Questions - New Guest Every Day - TONS OF PERSPECTIVE AND VALUE!
Happy Monday Y'all đŻ
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Sport Psychologist and Owner of Mindurance, Dr. Steve Graef joins us today for our Friday Discussion to rock out some conversation discussing the benefits using metaphors in conversation, storytelling tactics, and how we can develop useful habits TODAY.
Happy Friday, and MAKE it a great weekend y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
What type of culture do you have?.....Have you led/taught your people well?.....These two questions will help provide you with those answers!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Don't just follow to follow - be PURPOSEFUL and CONSCIOUS in your following efforts! The necessary learning, emulations, and understandings of "why" can be significantly developed by doing so. Let's Get It - Happy Tuesday Y'all! Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
What does your circle of influence look like? Are we surrounding ourselves with people who push us to be better because of who they are and how they operate? Can we be better about who we let into our lives?
Happy Monday Y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
For today's episode we sit down with one of the best Linebackers in Michigan State Football history, Cleveland native, and one hell of a dude in Mr. Joe Bachie. The NFL hopeful chops it up with us about his upbringing and how toughness and effort was a staple of his childhood, what failure has taught him along the way, and what the future hopefully holds in all realms of his life.
Lock it in, listen up, and let's rock this one out today y'all! Happy Friday!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
What does perseverance really mean? Can we get "better" at it? Are there areas of my life that I can focus on to better persevere when challenges present themselves? Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
"There are no tools that cannot be dropped, reimagined, or repurposed in order to navigate an unfamiliar challenge" - Range How can we utilize our skill sets this week in a new way that will stimulate benefit for us and those around us???.....LET'S WORK!Â
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
How do you know if you are actually "growing?" Is the "growth" you think you're making a firmly cemented characteristic, or is it fleeting? Is there an objective way to accurately answer that question?
Make it a GREAT week y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Mike Clark is the Director of Strength & Conditioning at Champions Sports Performance in Cornelius, North Carolina. Amidst the craziness happening around the world, I wanted to get Mike's advice on how to stay active during this time, no matter your circumstance. He provides some practical ideas and program examples that will help you get and/or stay moving, and doing it on a consistent basis! Make it a GREAT one y'all. Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
The truth is inconvenient. We know working out is necessary for a healthy body, but do we have the discipline to do it? We know studying for our test will give us a good shot at earning a good grade, but will we do it? We know getting 7+ hours of sleep will help us be more efficient the next day, but will we put the phone down and go to bed?
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Depending on circumstance and context, the type of motivation we choose might need to vary to achieve optimal results. Should we focus on how far we have come, or perhaps how far we still have left to go?
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
I haven't won much of anything in my life, and that is exactly why I continue to find progress, no matter the entity. Let's make it a great week y'all, and may we find a few losses along the way. Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
THROWBACK! For today's episode we are posting our conversation with Ohio State's own Niko Palazeti from back in December. The topics of conversation that we covered are ever-needed right now, especially when it comes to loving for effectively and genuinely.
As we move into this weekend let's continue to CHOOSE to be a light to the world, and always seek betterment regardless of circumstance. I appreciate you all and will continue to keep you in my prayers.
Make it a GREAT weekend y'all! God Bless.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Right now we are being taught the ever-important lesson of appreciating MOMENTS. When certain things are removed from your life without control, our longing for those very things, no matter how small, always seem to rush to the forefront of our minds. Let's use this time to re-establish the perspective of GRATITUDE for each and every moment of our lives.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
When it comes to working out, it doesn't matter who you are, how much money you have, or what kind of car you drive. The only things that matter are your effort, attitude, and consistency in achieving the results you want to find.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
When we are trying to implement a new habit or process into our lives, "anchor" it with something productive that we already do every single day. With the potential for more time on our our hands due to our current circumstances, let's utilize it for ENHANCEMENT and PROGRESSION.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Happy Friday Y'all! For today's episode I am sharing an interview that I did with The Wave Media Co. about a month and a half ago. During this conversation we covered my biggest influences, thoughts on hosting my own podcast, and why consistency in our words and actions are so important.
MAKE it a great weekend y'all!
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Leaders do not get people to believe in them, but rather find ways to get people to believe in THEMSELVES. It isn't about us as coaches, teachers, parents, or people of influence - all that matters is how we move the hearts of others in a positive direction.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Judgment is the driver of inaction. Why do kids play more than adults? Why do kids learn faster than adults? Why do kids fail more than adults? The answer, at least some part of it, is always fear of JUDGMENT.
Let's get outside and play this week my friends. Happy Wednesday đđťÂ
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
When we have something to look forward to in our lives, whether it be daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly, we therefore have more reason and responsibility to live life with purpose and drive. Establishing things in our lives, whatever that may look like for us, may be just the kickstart we need to work out of funk, or perhaps take us to a whole new level.
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Energy is not necessarily "juice" or "noise." Energy is a presence you give off when people are around you, and what that vibe exudes directly correlates to the amount of purpose you are living with to achieve the best for yourself and others. Social Media: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Amazing person, incredible thinker, and even better listener, Adam Powers joins us for this week's Friday Discussion.
We cover many topics that include structure stimulating creative outlets, training for an ultra-marathon, and how comparison can be a slippery slope depending on circumstance and context.
Make it a great day y'all!
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Comparison can be a slippery slope, so how should we navigate it? Today we offer up practical ways to go about doing so in a fulfilling and enriching way.
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
If we wish to identify our passions in life, HARD WORK and TIME SPENT must be executed to find the answers we seek. How do you seek out your passions?
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
1) "Both Positive and negative experiences are amplified when we share them, leading to even greater feelings of similarity" - Originals
2) Shared tactics trump shared goals (up to a certain point) - Originals
3) Money exposes us, doesn't change us.
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
1) "Actions and words reflect belief" - Extreme Ownership
2) "It is almost always the LEADER'S ATTITUDE that dtermined whether their SEAL units would ultimately succeed or fail" - Extreme Ownership
3) Work ethic MUST match the height of your goals.....and it still might not happen.........
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
Author, speaker, and mentor figure, Ben Malcolmson has been the right-hand man to Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll for the last 13 seasons. During his college years at USC, Ben was a student newspaper reporter for the Daily Trojan who tried out for the top-ranked football team simply to write a first-person account of the walk-on tryout process. Having not played football since 5th grade, he surprised himself and countless others when he got the call that he had earned a roster spot as a wide receiver on the 2006 Trojans.
After his one fairytale season ended, he became Director of Online Media for USC Football, where he created and managed the groundbreaking online presence for the Trojans as well as PeteCarroll.com. Since then, Ben has served Carroll and the Seahawks for the past 10 seasons. Also, he has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated, The Associated Press, USA Today, and The Dallas Morning News.
Ben currently shares his story to churches, youth groups, businesses, schools, and anyone else who desires to be inspired to discover their purpose.
Contact Me: https://linktr.ee/coachkub
As we approach this week I challenge us all to one, produce more of something that we are trying to get better at or be creative in, and two, broaden our horizons and seek out something to learn or do that is outside of what we normally do. Will you be the next Steve Jobs, Iâm not sure although certainly possible. However, at the very least, your creative spirit will unleash that much more and a new found perspective may be found. Make it a great week yâall - LETâS GET IT!
Greg is an Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach for the World Champion Kansas City Chiefs, just completing his first season on staff. Prior to his current position Greg spent 6 years at Missouri Western State University as the Director of Sports Performance. I have not met many men as influential, noble, and faith-driven as a Greg, and this conversation exemplified those things and so much more. Let's Get It đŻ
If you want to be tough, start by being consistent. If you want to be consistent, know who you are and what you stand for as the bedrock of your life. Make it a great week y'all!
Riley is a native of Traverse City, Michigan and alumnus of Michigan State University. He played Linebacker for the Spartans from 2012-2016, which was highlighted by winning the 2014 Rose Bowl, 2014 Cotton Bowl, and two Big Ten Championships. Upon graduation he signed as as Undrafted Free Agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and played for them for two seasons. After being released, Riley had a short stint with the Tennessee Titans before deciding to retire and set his sights on a new career in Real Estate. Riley currently lives in Denver, Colorado and works for The Bartic Group at Keller Williams Realty.
As we attack this week my friends, I challenge us to be mindful and present in the big and small moments. Let us realize the importance of not just the championship game, but rather the months and months of preparation every single day, that gives us the chance at performing AND enjoying the championship moments. Make that happen this week yâall.
Malik and Myles Amine will be competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics this August as wrestlers representing the country of San Marino. The story of how this opportunity has come to fruition for them is absolutely remarkable, and they shed light on what that processed has looked like along the way.
On today's episode we discuss what qualifying for the Olympic games entails, what they have learned throughout this entire PROCESS, and how they are preparing for for this incredible opportunity come August.
These young men are elite examples of what this platform stands for in harnessing the power of challenge and perspective, and how seeking those things every single day will open doors that we never thought imaginable. Much respect and appreciation for these guys and their approach. LET'S GET IT!
As we embark on this week, I challenge us to put something into action that will help us live more like Kobe, so when our time does come, we can rest in peace knowing we were purposeful in our pursuit of challenge, perspective, and influence. Make it a great week yâall.
I have been receiving some messages as of late in regards to who I am as a person, where my story begins, and the different things that I have learned along the way so far in my life. I thought this suggestion was fantastic so for this Friday's post/episode I decided to reverse engineer my interview and have my beautiful fiancè Jane ask me all of the questions! We cover everything from my upbringing, biggest influences and mentors, and how I got my start in the post-collegiate world. Make it a great weekend y'all!
As we embark on the week ahead, I challenge us to view one aspect of our lives with a process-minded approach. Rather than judging ourselves over the wins and losses that come our way, letâs seek the learning and progress in those situations and build off of that wisdom. Use it to be better the next time, and continuing on our way on that path with allow for greatness to be realized.
Bennie is a native of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and alumnus of Michigan State University. He played played football for the Spartans from 2010-13, capping off his career with a Big Ten Championship and Rose Bowl Victory his senior season.
Bennie had his sights set on the NFL after graduation and signed with the Denver Broncos as Undrafted Free Agent. He spent three years in Denver which was highlighted by winning the Super Bowl during the 2015 season and catching the final pass of Peyton Manning's career.
After short stints with the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots, Bennie signed with the New Giants where he has played the last two seasons. His most recent feat is the writing and publishing of his book Silver Spoon: The Imperfect Guide To Success, which is set to debut on January 28.
As we embark on this week I challenge us to seek positive energy and influence in all that we do. When we are talking to our co-workers, letâs be that vibe. After the guy driving in front of us cuts us off, letâs take a deep breath and keep it moving. When everyone else is talking about how the world is such a mess, letâs give them a reason to think the opposite.
Be that person this week, be purposeful in that pursuit, because we can and we should. Make it a great week yâall!
Pratik is entering his fourth season as the Giantsâ Director of Performance Nutrition/Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. Patel joined the Giants after time at the University of Oregon, where he was the Athletic Departmentâs Director of Sports Nutrition since October 2014. Patelâs job was to develop and direct the Sports Nutrition Department and manage the daily nutrition needs for 18 athletic teams and sports. Prior to his arrival at Oregon, he acted as the Sports Dietitian to the Michigan State University Athletic Department serving 23 teams and 720 athletes. Patel is originally from Shawnee, Kansas and went on to receive his undergraduate degree in Dietetics and Masterâs in Kinesiology from Kansas State University, where he also acted as the Sports Dietitian for the Menâs Basketball team. He began his career in sports as an intern learning from the staff at the Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, and at the University of Kansas.
As we embark on this week, I challenge us to pick an aspect of our lives and define what success looks like in that realm. A big question I suggest asking is do we need more of that specific thing in our life, or would simply being better in it or at it find us in a healthier frame of mind. Do I need to work more hours, or do I need to be more efficient with those hours? Do I need to be making more money, or do I need to manage it better? Do I need to have more friends, or do I need to be better and more purposeful with the ones I currently have?
Cristina is a big-time player in the Health and Fitness industry and one of the game's top influencers through a multitude of platforms. She has been involved in the industry for over 5 years now, and impacts thousands of people every single day through her YouTube channel, Instagram profile, and CCFIT app.
On today's episode, Cristina shares more of her story on how she got her start, what she has learned along the way, and how she has utilized this medium to make a difference in the lives of so many.
Without question our genetic make-up plays a big role in how our mental and physical biologyâs are formed. So, when it comes to our skillsets, whether it be leadership, how fast we can run, or our reading ability, it would be easy to write these things off as natural talents that were gifted to us at birth. However, through personal and work experiences, I have witnessed firsthand how this could not be further from the truth, and if willing, just about anything in our lives can be improved upon through hard work and purposeful approaches.
Logan is a native of Zanesville, Ohio and current graduate of Ohio State University. During his time in Columbus he majored in Sport Industry and walked on to the Buckeye football team in winter of 2018.
Logan's story of trying out for the team is a modern-day Rudy-like story, as he was working as a maintenance personnel at the football building when he was invited to work out for an opportunity to join the team come spring time. He worked his way onto the roster in the fall of 2018, and the rest is history.
Hard work needs to consist of seeking purpose in our pursuits, consistency over a quality amount of time, and an open mind to what we find by doing so. Itâs okay to not know what to do, itâs okay to not know what the step looks like, and itâs okay to not have your life figured out today. But, taking action and putting our efforts towards something we feel could lead us to happiness and/or greatness is necessary, and finding the courage to make that happen could be just what you have searching for all your life. Make it a great week yâall!
Nick (@nicharsh) is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Channels for SentryOne and is responsible for leading the SentryOne Global Partner Network.Prior to joining SentryOne, Nick was Vice President of National & Strategic Accounts for Dictaphone - Healthcare Division. Previous experience includes sales management positions with Computer Associates, NEC Computer USA, Tegra Varityper, and Heath/Zenith Computer Systems. Nick holds a BA degree in Economics from University of Dayton in Dayton, OH.
Whatever education we do hold, whatever grace and kindness is within our souls, and whatever knowledge can help someone else for the better, seek out opportunities to act on those things. At the end of the day, whether we like it or not, we will be judged for what we have done and acted on, not how many books we have read or how many degrees we obtained. Go out and act TODAY, and make the difference you wish to see in the world.
Niko is a native of Northville, Michigan and alumnus of Michigan State University. He played Fullback for the Spartan football team and was a three-time letter winner before injuries prompted him to retire in 2012. Since that point, Niko has worked as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for four Power 5 schools that include Michigan State, Mississippi State University, University of Maryland, and currently at Ohio State University. In his current role Niko is in his third season as an Assistant S&C Coach for the Buckeye football program, coming off their third straight Big Ten Championship this previous weekend.
My challenge for us this week is to first take time for quiet, purposeful thinking and attempt to understand ourselves 1% more each day. Performing this step first is vital because owning ourselves and who we are is the responsibility necessary to a better life in all realms. Once this step is initiated, then and only then, can we approach conversations with others in the appropriate light to be productive and enriching, rather than the other way around.
Colin is a native of Wathena, Kansas and graduate of Missouri Western State University. During his collegiate career, Colin played two years of football at Cornell College before transferring to Missouri Western where he was a student assistant for two seasons. Upon graduation, Colin spent three years teaching and coaching multiple sports at the high school level, before making his way back to Missouri Western coaching the on defensive side of the ball for two years, and then transitioning to running backs his third year. Coach McQuillan is currently the Defensive Coordinator at Southwestern Oklahoma State University and is going into his third season with the Bulldogs.
What are your daily habits and how are they affecting your ability to optimize yourself? Is your mindset supporting your current and future well-being? How about your environment? Family? Friends? Only we can answer these questions for ourselves, but ultimately, we have the chance every single day, for nine hours and forty minutes at the least, to make strides in the right direction through our habits and processes. The choice is ours; how can we be better?
Jane is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina and alumnus of Appalachian State University. During her time in Boone she majored in Health Promotion and was a member of the Women's Soccer Team. Jane had an extremely impressive career as a Mountaineer, finishing tied for first in single-season goals with 11, and being named Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year her senior season. After graduation Jane moved to Chicago and started her career in Medical Sales. She spent one year in the Windy City before starting her current position with Stryker Corporation as a Sales Representative covering the Panhandle of Florida.
When the opportunity presents itself, I encourage you all to choose a life of teaching over telling, and your footprint will always be one beyond your wildest comprehension.
Tyler Hickey is a Pilot and Captain on the U.S. Bobsled team. Before Bobsled, Tyler played Division 1 Football, while studying Mathematics and Sports Science at Davidson College in Charlotte, NC. After graduating from college, Tyler chose to pursue his dream of representing the United States in the Olympics, and that dream became closer to a reality when the U.S. Olympic Committee extended Tyler an invitation to try out for Bobsledding. At the end of multiple rounds of tryouts, Tyler was one of four recruits to be selected to the team from a pool of 500+ professional and former collegiate athletes. In the four years that have passed since his first tryout for the U.S. Bobsled Team, Tyler has gone on to become one of the Top 5 ranked Bobsled Pilots in the country, competed in and won several international competitions, and continues to pursue his dream of competing in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, China.
Do actions matter? Absolutely. Do inactions matter, absolutely? The combination of these two entities and finding the right mixture of both will allow us the opportunity to discover the things in life that we strongly desire to find. As we move forward with our week, I challenge us all to find one thing that we can implement into our lives that will help us be better, and to also find one thing that we can remove or stay away from that will help us in that same pursuit. Think purposefully, decide on a certain path, and go. Make it a great week yâall.
Casey is a native of Rockford, Michigan and alumnus of Michigan State University. During his time at Michigan State he majored in Economics while being part of the Michigan State Men's Basketball program as a Student Manager. During his time with the team, the Spartans won the Big Ten Conference Tournament Championship in 2016 and Big Ten Regular Season Championship in 2018. Upon graduation, Casey went to work with current NBA player and Phoenix Suns Guard Devin Booker, helping him with his sports marketing and brand partnerships. Most recently he co-founded a company called Off The Record, that aims to create human connection through phone free experiences.
As we embark on this week I challenge us all to take some time, be honest with ourselves, and seek to recognize where our strengths and passions lie. We may find the answers immediately, or it may take longer, but we must ask ourselves these questions if we wish to find more fulfillment and purpose in our lives. Make it a great week yâall.
Anthony is a native of Brighton, Michigan and alumnus of Ferris State University. During his time in Big Rapids, he majored in Business and was an All-American Linebacker for the Bulldog football program that marched all the way to the Division 2 Semi-Finals his senior year. Upon graduation Anthony had a short stint as a Student Linebacker's Coach for the Bulldogs before making the jump to playing professionally in Germany for the New Yorker Lions where they won the Euro Bowl for the 2018 season. Currently, Anthony is in the process of qualifying for 2021 Crossfit Games as well co-running a new fitness platform called Fit Is Getting Real with his beautiful fiancĂŠ.
The process towards changing for the better and taking positive steps in the right direction is not about doing so over night, but rather making one small change after another and allowing them to add up over time.
Give yourself permission to have patience, take your time with the process, and eliminate judging yourself along the way. Simplify rather than complicate, be consistent, and make it happen because YOU CAN, AND YOU SHOULD.
The Plymouth, Michigan native is an alumnus of Michigan State University, where he majored in Economics while also playing second base for the baseball. He was a three-time letter winner and two-time academic All-Big Ten selection during his time with the Spartans.
After graduation PJ took his talents to Austin, Texas, joining the team OutboundEngine as a Strategic Accounts Team Lead then moving up to a Manager of Business Development. After a successful two years PJ recognized his true calling and passion and founded The DONUT, a FREE daily email newsletter that provides just the facts, and a 360-degree view of the dayâs major headlines.
You see, ânormalâ is a myth. There is no such thing as normal. There is no such thing as perfect. There is no such thing as flawless. On the other hand however, what there are plenty of, are imperfections and flaws, and THAT IS OKAY!
What I believe is that because of imperfections, we can therefore have much more empathy for one another, and help others recognize and work on their shortcomings, while they can help us do the same.
Tony Lippett is a native of Detroit, Michigan, where he was born and raised until heading off to Michigan State University on a football scholarship. There he starred as both a cornerback and wide receiver for the Spartans, culminating his career with being named the Big Tenâs Wide Receiver of the Year and 1st Team All-Big Ten selection his senior season.
He was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, playing there for two seasons and starting for one during 2016. Most recently he has competed for the New York Giants and Cincinnati Bengals, and is currently a Free Agent awaiting his next opportunity.
When it comes to confidence, as well as most other things in my opinion, this attribute can be classified as a skill, meaning that it can be improved upon through our own efforts and endeavors. A common misconception of confidence is that we are either born with it or not, and not much can be done to help our cause in that regard; I highly disagree.
Tres is a native of Solon, Ohio. He attended Michigan State University where he majored in Kinesiology and Human Biology, while also playing Wide Receiver for the Spartans and becoming a three-time letter winner and two-time Academic All-Big Ten Selection. Tres is currently in his second semester of medical school at Case Western University.
The debate on specialization has been around for quite some time. There has always been and always will be people on both sides of the argument. On one hand, you have an incredible example of Tiger Woods, who started specializing in the game of golf since the time he could walk. On the contrary, you have an athlete like Roger Federer, who dabbled in a variety of sports until finally settling on the great game of tennis. So the question remains, if both of these approaches can turn out well, which path should we choose?
Ms. Jordan Tingman is a native of the great state of Washington, where she attended Washington State University and earned her degree in Kinesiology while also working as a Strength and Conditioning Intern for the Cougarâs athletic program. After graduation she transitioned to Ohio State University before moving back to Washington and joined Eastern Washington Universityâs Athletic Performance staff and is currently working towards her Masterâs Degree in Exercise Science. IN her spare time, Jordan also contributes to the International Youth Conditioning Association as a content writer.
Throughout our schooling and childhoods we are presented with ways in which we should think, or act, or problem-solve, and that is all well and good. However, as we begin to get older and see the world through our own eyes and minds, are we accepting the opinions and teachings of others as our own because we truly believe in them as well, or are we seeking to form our own opinions on things and find out where our own hearts, minds, and souls lie?
Jeremie Kubicek is the Co-Founder and Chairman of GiANT Worldwide and CEO of GiANT TV. He specializes in getting leaders to a higher level through his speaking, consulting and books. He takes complex concepts and adapts them into powerful tools that are practical and scalable.  Jeremie speaks worldwide to audiences of all sizes across various industries and sectors. In addition,  Jeremie is a best-selling author of the books Making Your Leadership Come Alive; 5 Gears: How To Be Present and Productive When There Is Never Enough Time; 5 Voices: How To Communicate With Everyone You Lead; & The 100X Leader.
Of all the reasons that can potentially stop us from finding happiness and joy, I encourage us all to never fall short as a result of inaction.
In todayâs Friday Discussion, we will be hearing from Ben Boudro. Ben is the owner of Xceleration Fitness located in Auburn Hills, MI, which was just named, for the second year in a row, Metro-Detroitâs Top Fitness Facility. Xceleration offers runs world class adult fitness program where they help clients with fat loss,muscle building, and confidence building! In addition to the these program, Ben and his team also offer specific training for youth, high school, collegiate and professional athletes.
As we grow older we seem to accept the ârealityâ that what we are good at and should accept as our fate is set in stone; our younger, more vibrant days are behind us, and it is time to stop searching or trying for more. However, what if there is still more inside of us that is yet to be revealed, and that revealing is what will take us to the next level, or allow us to make that impact that we have always wanted to create?
Tyler O'Connor is a native of Lima, Ohio. He attended Michigan State University on a football scholarship where he played Quarterback for the Spartans from 2012-2016. During his time in East Lansing, Tyler earned his Undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management, as well as earn his Master's degree in Market Research.
He currently lives in Chicago, Illinois and works as a Manager of Packaging Procurement at KraftHeinz.
Is solitude necessary, or are we choosing to avoid these types of interactions with ourselves because we're afraid of what we may uncover if we do?
For today's Friday Discussion we welcome Mr. Evan Gates. Evan is native of Charlotte, North Carolina. He attended Tusculum College where he played football for the Pioneers as a Linebacker, Cornerback, and Wide Receiver. Upon graduation, Evan took a job at Champions Sports Performance in Cornelius, North Carolina as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, working there for a year and a half.
This past spring Evan made the jump to Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Oceanside Collegiate Academy in Charleston, South Carolina, where he services all 26 athletic teams, as well as coaches the Linebackers for both the Junior Varsity and Varsity teams.
Find It Here -> Unplugged: Evolve From Technology to Upgrade Your Fitness, Performance, & Consciousness
Are we performing our routines because of habit and compliance, or are we genuinely committed to these tasks?
Our guest for today's Friday Discussion is Mr. Todd Anderson. Todd works for the global luxury fitness company Equinox, serving as a Personal Training Manager at their New York City facility. Prior to his current role, Todd worked for Equinox in similar capacities in both Chicago and Miami.
Prior to his fitness coaching career Todd was a fullback for the Michigan State Spartans for 2007-2011 and was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an Undrafted Free Agent going into the 2012 season.
Should we continue to move forward and be surrounded by those who have similar pasts as us, or break off and seek out others who have a future that we are longing to find?
Aaron Babicz is a graduate of Hillsdale College where he was a 4x letter-winner and three year starter for the football team, while also majoring in Marketing. The happily married father of two (Brooks and Beaux) has been the Athletic Director at his alma mater Detroit Catholic Central High School since the fall of 2009.
I challenge us this week to identify the parts of our lives that are already maximized as well those that need work in getting up to speed. When searching for these answers, maybe an area that we are maximizing can afford to be shown a little less attention in exchange for placing that care and effort somewhere else.
"The first and hardest step is just doing it. Get up, find a way, and go do it without concerning yourself over the opinions of others"
Today's guest for our Friday Discussion is AJ Troup, current actor living in Los Angeles, California. AJ was born and raised in Plymouth, Minnesota before heading east and attending Michigan State University. AJ was a Wide Receiver for the Spartans, who joined the team as a Walk-On and eventually earned a scholarship, capping off his senior year with a Big Ten Championship and College Football Playoff appearance. He graduated from MSU majoring in Advertising, with a minor in Theatre.
After college AJ moved out to Denver, Colorado to pursue his dream of acting, where he spent 8 months before making the transition to Los Angeles to further that dream and is engrossing himself in an environment that will allow him to grow his brand as well as life experiences.
âWhen you get yourself into nature â in all its majesty, volume, and power â you are put into a position of insignificance very quickly. As youâre now at the bottom of the pecking order, youâre able to properly assess what you are doing. Thereâs a certain level of humility that nature demands of you, especially when youâre fully participating in it.â
Nick is a native of Novi, Michigan and attended Oakland University on a soccer scholarship, where he played for the Golden Grizzlies from 2010-2013 and won the 2013 Senior CLASS Award for Menâs Soccer as the most outstanding senior student-athlete in NCAA Division 1 Menâs Soccer. Upon graduation he continued his playing career and played two years of professional soccer in both the United States and Australia.
After completing his second season Nick decided to embark on a new journey and start his company Fleece & Thank You with the goal of providing much needed comfort, support, and connection by giving handmade fleece blankets to children facing treatments in hospitals all across the Midwest. In addition to this endeavor, Nick has also started and runs three other companies:  Empathy 313, which makes technology solutions for social impact organizations, Crate of Good, a social impact subscription box, and Flockets.com, an apparel site that funds micro-loans for families with a child battling cancer.Â
Through self-awareness and emotional intelligence, we can begin to identify when there are aspects of ourselves that need to be addressed or fixed. It is when this realization takes place that we have to choose whether to use a Band-Aid to cover up the shortcoming or perform the necessary surgery to truly fix the problem.
Chris Friend has worked with Ohio State since January of 2018 as a Strength and Conditioning Intern, then transitioned to the Strength and Conditioning Associate in October of 2018. In this current position, Friend is responsible for designing and implementing all assets of S&C for Womenâs Ice Hockey and Novice Rowing as well as assisting with the implementation S&C for Menâs Ice Hockey.
Friend graduated from Eureka College where he majored in Kinesiology and Exercise Science and was a three-time all-conference linebacker. He is currently enrolled in the Masterâs of Sport Coaching Program at Ohio State. Previously, Friend worked at Mississippi State University as a football strength and conditioning intern, working under former Buckeye strength intern and current University of Florida Head Football Strength Coach, Nick Savage.
Friend is from Washington, Ill., where he attended Washington Community High School.
âLeadership is the ability to uncover the best from your team by removing the obstacles that prevent them from accomplishing that task.â This definition of leadership was provided on our podcast a couple of months by Mr. Adam Powers, and perhaps it may seem as if it is just another meaning of leadership that likes to get thrown around often. However, if we are to take a few extra minutes and look deeper into the context of that definition, there is something profound that is frequently overlooked when it comes to leading, and that is adding value to the lives of those around us sometimes means taking away things that inhibit real growth to be found.
Blair White was born and completed his primary education in Saginaw, Michigan. After high school he had the opportunity to walk-on as a wide receiver to the Michigan State football team. He is particularly fond that his teammates and coaches voted him the Biggie Munn Most Inspirational Player Award after earning a scholarship in 2009. He captained the MSU football team his senior season and received the Presidentâs Award for the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor as the graduating male athlete with the greatest proficiency in athletics and scholastics. He later went on to play a couple seasons with the Indianapolis Colts under the tutelage of Peyton Manning.Â
Once his playing career ended, Blair enrolled in graduate school at the University of Detroit Mercy where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and currently has his own practice in Saginaw, Michigan. Dr. White believes he has a duty to contribute meaningfully to society and create value for people in his community and the world, and he strives to stay involved with outreach programs and community initiatives as much as possible.
As the world around us continues to evolve, there are also certain aspects that remain the same. The advancements that we are making in many arenas of life are truly fascinating, and can potentially make our lives easier and more enjoyable. Yet, with all of the progressions that we are witnessing daily, one of the most foundational elements of our existence remains: the world is not getting weaker, so we must get stronger.
Juwan is a native of Miami, Florida. He started his collegiate football career at Michigan State University before moving back to Florida and finishing his eligibility at Florida International University. Upon graduation, Mr. Caesar launched his company Freeze Frame Media back in his hometown of Miami where he is currently residing. His company films, creates, and produces a multitude of content for a wide variety of clientele.
Juwan will be sharing his perspective on how his company and lifestyle contribute to being a leader in his community and how that approach positively benefits the lives of many. Letâs get it!
As a leader, it is my belief that the first order of business in this type of role, or any role for that matter, is getting to know your people. One way in which we can make this happen is by being purposeful in our interactions with those we are leading, whether it be formally in a sit-down meeting or informally as we pass each other in the hallway. One of the fastest ways to develop relationships with others is by showing we care for them by listening to what they have to say, understanding them as people, and helping them achieve their fullest potential.
Greg is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio attending the well renowned Moeller High School. He played college football at Michigan State University and starred at Linebacker for the Spartans, earning All-American honors twice, won the 2010 Big Ten Championship, and graduated with a degree in Media Arts and Technology. The New York Giants selected him in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft and was a member of the Giants' Super Bowl Championship team following the 2011 season. In addition to his time in the NFL, Greg also spent significant time playing in the Canadian Football League for the Toronto Argonauts and Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Greg is currently involved in a number of different enterprises that include Vice President of Vane Protective Gear, Inspirational Speaker, Rodan + Fields Consultant, Sports Performance Trainer, and partner of the innovative football jacket 4ce Field.
Whether it be in our own lives, our childrenâs, or otherâs, one common downfall in our attempts is trying to pave the road ahead for ourselves, rather than paving OURSELVES for the unknown route of that road.
Caleb White is an upcoming senior at Detroit Catholic Central High School.  He served as the President of his National Junior Honor Society. Caleb was the recipient of the State and National Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. He has also received the President's Volunteer Service Award, the Governor's Youth Leader of the Year Award, The Sparky Anderson Youth in Philanthropy Award, the Nickelodeon Halo Award and the Kohl's Cares Scholarship. He serves on the Youth Council for the Detroit Rescue Mission and the Youth Advisory Board for Purposeful Networks. Currently, his biggest endeavor is the Caleb White Project, which is a Detroit-based non-profit with a two-fold mission: to help the homeless and less fortunate and to build youth leaders through volunteerism. Run by a youth advisory board consisting of 9 board members under the age of 18, all CWP events and service projects are carefully designed with jobs for kids of all ages. The goal of the Caleb White Project is to remove judgement and stereotypes and to show young people that they have the power to change the world around them.
It is hard to ask others to like us if we first struggle to look in the mirror and know who we are ourselves. I challenge us this week to look into that mirror and ask the person looking back at us âwhat can I do today to better understand myself?â
We are pleased to have Brendan Bishop join us this week for our Friday Discussion. Brendan works within the Ohio State Football program, where he serves in both operations and recruiting. Prior to his time at Ohio State, he spent 3 years at TCU in Fort Worth, TX. In 2017, Brendan worked in football operations assisting the Director of Football Operations. From 2015-2016, he worked in the equipment realm as a graduate assistant servicing the football program. Prior to his stop in Fort Worth, Brendan began his career in college athletics, working as a student manager for the Ohio State Football team from 2011-2015. Brendan is originally from Hamler, Ohio in Northwest Ohio and enjoys spending his free time at the lake and back home on the farm.
Am I thinking, speaking, and acting in a way that INSPIRES those around me, or am I existing in a way that deters others from wanting to be their very best???.....
Joining us today for our Friday Discussion is the extremely impressive Justin Cessante. Justin's life resume kicks off with his collegiate career at Grand Valley State University where he played Linebacker on the football team, which was highlighted by winning the National Championship in 2002. Upon graduation he found himself on the coaching side of the game at his high school alma mater, Detroit Catholic Central, while also working at American Franchise Systems for four years in the corporate world. Justin knew his calling was in providing a platform for the youth in his area which is when he turned to the task of co-founding the non-profit HYPE Athletics. He spent a number of amazing years with HYPE before moving on to his current role at the Legacy Center in Brighton, Michigan as the Director of Football Operations. In addition to this role he is also the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Legacy and Executive Director of the L.E.A.D. Foundation whose mission is to empower student-athletes and support other non-profits through Leadership, Education, Action, and Development.
â Having hope means that one will not give in to overwhelming anxiety, a defeatist attitude, or depression in the face of difficult challenges or setbacks. Hope is more than the sunny view that everything will turn out all right, but rather it is believing you have the will and the way to accomplish your goals" - Daniel Goleman
For today's Friday Discussion we are joined by Skyler Windmiller. Skyler was born and raised in the great of Kansas, growing up in the town of Shawnee. He attended Missouri Western State University where he was a 4-year starter at Quarterback for the Griffons, majored in Exercise Science, and is finishing his M.B.A. in the coming weeks.
A few months ago he authored his first eBook called Mindset Muscle which focuses on the development and control of your thoughts to help you further gain control of your mind. He is currently a High School football coach and teacher in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and the Owner/President of New Dimension Supplement Club.
âSociety is commonly too cheap. We meet at very short intervals, not having had time to acquire any new value for each otherâ - Walden
The world we live in and the people that consume it sometimes take on the approach that busyness is ideal, companionship is always needed, and time away from even our closest friends can be detrimental to our well being. At different times these situations are always welcome and very much needed, but to what extent? If we are always around others and constantly in motion, where do we find time to improve upon ourselves and develop greater value that we can bring to the table?
Joining us today for our Friday Discussion is Michael Clark. Mike is a native of Atlanta, Georgia where he was a two-sport athlete in football and baseball. He continued his football career into college attending Jacksonville State University as a defensive lineman, winning two conference championships with the Gamecocks. Upon graduation Mike accepted a Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant job at Eastern Kentucky University, where he earned his Master's Degree and was the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for Track and Field, Tennis, and Men's and Women's Golf. After completing his degree, Mike moved down to Charlotte, North Carolina taking a job as the Head of Strength and Conditioning at Champions Sports Performance, where he has held that role for the past six years.
As human beings, one of our deepest desires is the urge to feel important; how can we harness it into a productive aspect of our leadership efforts?
Joining us today for our Friday Discussion is Mr. Drew Valentine. Drew is a native of Lansing, Michigan where he attended the legendary Sexton High School. He played his collegiate basketball at Oakland University where he graduated as the winningest player in school history and was the heart and soul of an Oakland program that recorded 87 victories and a pair of NCAA Tournament berths. Upon graduation Drew became a Graduate Assistant at Michigan State University for two seasons, then back to his alma mater as an Assistant Coach for Oakland, and is now currently an Assistant Coach at Loyola University of Chicago. He made an immediate impact in his first season helping lead the Ramblers to their first NCAA Final Four appearance in 55 years and back-to-back regular season conference titles for the first time in school history.
Would it be possible to re-train our conversational skills and seek to approach our conversations with the end goal of understanding the other personâs perspective, rather than prove it right or wrong? Would this method lead to more productive and enriching interactions that could benefit both parties involved?
For todayâs Friday Discussion we are joined by Mr. Adam Powers. Adam is a native of Plymouth, Michigan and currently residing in the beautiful and re-surging city of Detroit, Michigan. Growing up he was a very impressive athlete capping off his playing days as a two-year captain for the football team at Kalamazoo College. Over the next couple of years he spent a ton of time traveling the world highlighted first by spending one year in Australia and then moving on to visit more than 20 countries following that stint.
More of Adamâs highlights include securing a MBA in International Business, volunteering for the outstanding organization Folds of Honor, and being an avid health and fitness advocate taking part in a wide variety of gyms and movements across the country!
Are we indirectly putting a lot of focus on controlling our environments so our character is not challenged? Are we afraid to seek a new challenge, new environment, or new relationship because it may expose us for who we really are? Would being consistently exposed to a wide variety of environments aid in our âcharacter development?Â
For todayâs Friday Discussion, we are joined by friend, former teammate, and all around lights out dude, Mr. Darien Harris. Darien is a former linebacker and captain for the football team at Michigan State University.  After a short stint with the Cincinnati Bengals and Ottawa RedBlacks of the CFL, Darien decided to return to MSU to complete a Masterâs degree which he graduated with this past Friday in Marketing Research while also serving as a graduate assistant in the Clara Bell Smith Center for Student Athlete Support Services.
Outside of that, Darien is currently a regular contributor to the Big Ten Network, brand ambassador for BIGGBY COFFEE, and Coach for Legacy Sportâs football program out of Brighton, MI.  During his time at MSU, Darien was a part of the winningest senior class of all time, including a Rose Bowl Championship, two Big Ten Championships, a Cotton Bowl Championship, and a berth in the College Football Playoffs.Â
âBeauty is the result of gradual growth from within outward, of the necessities and character of the indweller, who does it themselves, without ever a thought for the appearance.â
In today's Friday Discussion I am extremely excited to be joined by Bailee Bullough, former player in the Real Estate market and current Level V Circle Achiever for Rodan + Fields, a premium skincare brand built on a legacy of innovative dermatology-inspired skincare products that are redefining the future of anti-aging skincare.Â
Four years into the business, Bailee has developed herself into an exceptionally strong and innovative leader who oversees a team of 80 women across the globe. In addition to her work duties, she is the wife to a college football coach and pregnant with their first baby boy!
If our âHOWâ can be elevated and supported by genuine care and challenge, our âWHATâ will certainly do the same.
For todayâs Friday Discussion we will be joined with Matt Rea â founder, owner, and creator of Detroit Muscle, a fitness apparel brand with the goal of creating content to inspire, motivate, and inform a community of likeminded individuals in the Detroit area and beyond.
Matt also leads the Content Marketing Team at Xenith, an industry leader in designing and manufacturing football helmets, protective equipment, and performance training apparel.
Mattâs passion for health, fitness, and leadership started at a young age, and was amplified through his 15 year football career which included his time playing for Michigan State University and two years in the Canadian Football League.
Matt strives every day to do 3 things:
- Be a leader in the way he carries himself and interacts with those around him.
- Create something of value and share it with a relevant audience.
- Work as smart as he is working hard; cutting out anything that may be slowing him down or not allowing him to reach his potential.
The central idea behind this notion is that if we are to lead those around us, we first and foremost must absolutely focus on the development and maturation of our own hearts, souls, and minds.
In today's Friday Discussion we are blessed to be joined by Ira Childress - Athletic Director at Okemos High School in Okemos, Michigan. In his role with the Chiefs he utilizes his creativity and vision to provide innovative solutions and experiences for OHS student-athletes, coaches, and surrounding community. As a result of his efforts, Childress is currently a finalist for NATIONAL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR!Â
I have found that the best way in which to keep finding victories and significant advancement in our lives is to change when we donât have to, especially at the top of our game.
If we can take on a viewpoint that we may not be where we eventually want to be in the future, in order to get there, we must appreciate the journey and the lessons we are learning in the moment to give us a fighting chance at seeing our dreams come true.
In todayâs discussion we are joined by the beautiful, loving, gracious Mrs. Karen Sadler. Karen is the leader of the Michael Sadler Foundation and beloved mother of my friend and teammate, Mike Sadler.
Mikeâs extraordinary life was abruptly halted when he died in a tragic car accident in Wisconsin on July 23, 2016. At the time, he was volunteering at a kicking camp to mentor young players. His commitment to helping others, contributing to community and embracing his love of family, friends, and society was constant. He lived his life with impeccable character. Only after his death did we realize the tens of thousands of lives he affected because of his integrity and the way he chose to live life.
Michael earned unparalleled recognition in academics and athletics. At MSU he earned a bachelor's degree in Engineering and a master's degree in Public Policy. He was an All-American as well as the first-ever, four-time Academic All American in MSU history. Michael was a member of the National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Class of 2014 and a William V. Campbell trophy finalist. He was awarded the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor in 2014 for outstanding athletic and academic achievement. Awards that Mike received are now being renamed in his honor. Michael was proud to be a Spartan and was excited to be entering Stanford Law School.
We will be hearing from Karen today to give her a platform that will raise the awareness and reach of Mikeâs foundation, and to get a better feel into who Mike was and the impact he made on so many of us, and still does to this day. Please take a listen to what Karen shared with me in our conversation on the Podcast above, and check out the organizationâs WEBSITE (MICHAELSADLERORGANIZATION.ORG) and TWITTER (@SADLER_3) for information to how you can help this amazing effort.
If we consider what success truly means to us individually, then the result of that finding leads us to realize that if âsuccessâ can vary amongst individuals, then âfailureâ is surely subjective as well.
If we define ourselves by the improvements we have made over the course of our lifetimes, our happiness and confidence will surely be elevated, and we will find ourselves much better off as a result.
"There are many reasons that I believe athletics have a positive influence on those that participate, but the two things that I try and stress to our athletes and coaches are to focus on every detail and make yourself uncomfortable as often as possible."
If we hope to build trust with one another, plentiful but quality micro-actions are to be taken each day to build up that trust, which is, metaphorically speaking, âdepositingâ pennies into the Trust bank. These small but meaningful actions and words build up over time to allow trust to accumulate and thus our relationships improve and grow.
Sports have the ability to change someoneâs life for the better because it teaches them how to persevere, how to overcome, how to push yourself to the limit spiritually, mentally, and physically. Whether you are part of a team or in an individual sport you have to learn that the only two things you can control are your effort and your attitude.
If we ourselves can live out how we want our culture to function, and do it in a wholesome and genuine fashion, this will permeate into the lifestyles of others and create the environment we desire.
It is in moments of challenge and uneasiness in which our very being is forged like a piece of metal under a blazing fire. If we want to improve our lives with a voluntary mindset of seeking challenge, we are to take on the role of that metal, and put ourselves to the fire so that we too may forged into who we can potentially become if we so choose.
This transformational experience as a Walk-On facilitated the cultivation of my unique personal values while simultaneously teaching me to be resilient in the face of disappointment. I know through the journey of medicine I will encounter many obstacles but I also realize the commitment to my goals will have a positive impact on my future patients.Â
If we examine the most elite people, regardless of industry or occupation, emotional intelligence is more times than not one of their sharpest tools, if not the sharpest, in their leadership toolbox.Â
"Toughness is the ability to be the same person every single day, regardless of circumstance" - Coach Niko Palazeti
Ben Boudro- owner of Xceleration Fitness and TWO-TIME METRO-DETROIT TOP FITNESS FACILITY - joins us today for our third edition of Friday Discussions.
I love challenges, and the journey of taking on challenges and chasing dreams makes it all worth it in the end.
If we can put forth significant effort into living truthful lives so our real intentions are well-known by others, that will create an environment of transparency, which then will create a byproduct of trust, which is the basis for everything meaningful and truly desirable in life.
Sometimes we get caught up in trying to make ourselves sound smart, rather than giving others the opportunity to do so. Guard heavily against allowing your ego to get in the way of letting all that knowledge be shared with those around you.
What I have found is that people care more about trust then respect- I know what youâre thinking- âhow can that beâ. In my opinion, respect can be demanded based upon the position you have, while trust is freely given and earned.
When the opportunity presents itself, I encourage you all to choose a life of teaching over telling, and your footprint will always be one beyond your wildest comprehension.