It’s Finally Here!

As mentioned earlier this week, here’s the newest installment of this newsletter. Below you’ll find three of the most high-value video clips I came across (or was reminded of) this week.

This week’s clips highlight how great leaders show up when they’re needed, intentionally carve out time for human connection, and how a simple transition routine can strengthen your presence between work and home.

I also still have some availability for free coaching calls over the next couple of weeks. Any collegiate or professional coaches who want to explore how I can support you or learn more about the resources available, you’re welcome to sign up.

Showing Up When Someone Needs You

Context

In his opening press conference, new Oregon State head football coach JaMarcus Shephard shared a morning ritual and message he tells himself every day.

“I get up in the morning, I look in the mirror, and I say to myself, ‘There’s someone who needs you today, big dog. They need you. They need you now… They need you today. I don’t care what’s going on in your life right now. Go help them.’”

Lesson

Leadership is a responsibility, not a convenience. There will be days when you’re tired. Days when you’re managing your own burdens. Days when you don’t feel fully ready.

But players face the same reality. They’re often asked to perform on their toughest days, to compete even when something inside of them feels misaligned or uncertain. The same expectation applies to us as leaders.

You can’t script when someone will need you. You can’t predict when a moment to help will arrive. Your job is to be the kind of leader who shows up (even when the timing isn’t ideal) because that’s often when your presence will matter the most.

Intentionally Scheduling Connection

Context

Arizona State head women’s basketball coach, Molly Miller, intentionally builds time into her weekly schedule for players to stop by and talk, which she calls “Miller Mondays.”

Lesson

If it’s not on your calendar, it’s usually not a priority. You can learn a lot about what a leader truly values simply by looking at how they allocate their time.

Culture isn't merely delivered through speeches or team meetings. Culture is built in the moments where athletes feel seen, heard, and understood.

By carving out scheduled space for connection, Molly Miller reinforces a value many talk about but few operationalize: Your humanity matters here.

Transition Routines to Protect Your Presence

Context

Former NBA head coach, Monty Williams, implemented a rule for his coaching staff: Leave the office to be home for dinner and protect that time. But he admits he struggled with his own guideline and often stayed late and brought the emotional residue of the day home with him.

So he created a simple transition routine.

Lesson

Most leaders try to shift from high-intensity environments straight into their family’s world without any separation. This doesn’t always work well.

A brief transition routine (e.g. going for a walk, breathing, changing out of your work clothes, or even sitting quietly in the car) gives you space to release the day and arrive fully available to the people who matter most.

You lead better at work when you protect who you are at home.

In Case You Missed It

• Check out my latest interview on The Threshold Lab podcast with Billy Allen (Asst. Coach and Player Development Coordinator, Stanford Beach Volleyball): [Link to video]

• If you’re a collegiate or professional coach and want to explore how I can support you whether it’s your leadership, your staff, or the environment you’re building, you’re welcome to grab a time on my calendar [Book now]