In Episode 154, we are recasting our episode with Dan Abrahams, Sports Psychologist, best-selling author of four books, Founder of the Dan Abrahams Soccer Academy and The Sport Psych Show Podcast, and former pro golfer, who talks with Phil about his sports psychology work, his books, and his podcast, the concepts of “Teamship” and motivational climate, extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation, pre-failing, self-leadership, his personal why, how we can coach difficult players by asking great questions, and whether we can recreate the pressure of a penalty kick outside of a match. Specifically, Dan discusses:

·      His story, his work with Premier League and other football/soccer teams, his books, his podcast, how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to where he is today (3:31)

·      What excites him about the increase of awareness of the importance of mindset and sports psychology in sports over the past several years (13:53)

·      In which sport the mental game is more important: soccer or golf (20:04)

·      The concept of “Teamship” and why it is important (26:49)

·      The Motivational Climate of a Team, what it is, and what it has to do with a team’s culture and burnout (30:13)

·      Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivation, get-to vs. have-to mentality, and how they are related to short- and long-term performance (43:07)

·      The concept of pre-failing (49:01)

·      Why self-leadership and a leader’s mindset are important (53:13)

·      His personal why and how it is playing out in his life (59:05)

·      “Not” coaching difficult players, but teaching them to coach themselves through questions (1:01:23)

·      How personality styles are related to the sports psychology work (1:05:45)

·      Whether it is possible to recreate the pressure of a penalty kick in a training environment (1:09:31)

·      How he uses lessons learned in soccer in his family relationships (1:14:16)

·      His recommendation, which is very personal to him (1:15:44)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Dan’s Website
• The Sport Psych Show Podcast
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Coaching the Bigger Game information
• Warrior Way information
• Phil Darke’s email address
• Soccer Tough: Simple Football Psychology Techniques to Improve Your Game, by Dan Abrahams
• Soccer Tough 2: Advanced Psychology Techniques for Footballers, by Dan Abrahams
• Soccer Brain: The 4C Coaching Model for Developing World Class Player Mindsets and a Winning Football Team, by Dan Abrahams
• Golf Tough: Practice, Prepare, Perform, and Progress, by Dan Abrahams
• The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance, by W. Timothy Gallwey

In Episode 153, we are going way back to the first half of our first season and recasting one of our most impactful and most downloaded interviews. In this conversation, Eric Pfeiffer, Founder and Senior Consultant of MPWR Coaching and Collegiate Soccer Player, talks with Phil about emotional intelligence, dealing with insecurities, self-love, permission to fail, the journey of growth, conflict resolution, and much more. Specifically, he discusses:

·      His story and how his experience playing soccer intersects with other areas of his life and leadership (3:25)

·      Emotional intelligence and why it is critical to success in soccer and leading others in any area of life (7:36)

·      How coaching sports organizations is the same as coaching any other organizations (9:47)

·      Insecurities, how they affect us in soccer and other areas of life, and how we can overcome them in sport and life (14:01)

·      How self-love is different from narcissism and why the distinction is important to understand (19:06)

·      Permission to fail and why it’s necessary to learn how to embrace failure and fail forward (22:21)

·      How insecurities and emotional unintelligence manifest themselves in our lives (and on the soccer pitch) and why overcoming them is essential to flourishing in life (25:19)

·      The journey of growth and phases of development for anything worth doing (30:18)

·      Creating a culture that celebrates healthy failure (33:27)

·      What soccer teaches us about conflict resolution and how we can work through conflict together in a healthy way (42:09)

·      How he uses the lessons he learned from soccer in his marriage and parenting (48:39)

·      His recommendation of a book that impacted his thinking of the intersection of soccer, life, and leadership (53:34)

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Audio with subtitles available on our YouTube channel (video not available due to technical difficulties)

·      MPWR Coaching website

·      Eric Pfeiffer on LinkedIn

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      Providence World (to financially support HSEL)

·      Das Reboot: How German Football Reinvented Itself and Conquered the World, by Raphael Honigstein

In Episode 144, Lang Wedemeyer, Head Coach of Liberty University Women’s Soccer, husband, and father, talks with Phil and Paul about his ministry and coaching journey and lessons he has learned along the way, the challenges of transitioning a program from D-1 to D-2, how he is a better coach because of an ill-timed injury, the transfer portal, the importance of mentorship and how Iron Chats are helping coaches, how his faith impacts his coaching, culture building, great lessons from great coaches, a bunch of great book recommendations, and much more. Specifically, Lang discusses:

·      His personal story, including how he grew his passion for soccer, leadership, and coaching, and how he ended up coaching at Liberty University (1:46)

·      Lessons learned from his transition from Division 2 to Division 1 while coaching at South Dakota State (5:23)

·      How the transfer portal is changing the game (9:38)

·      His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out today (11:41)

·      The importance of mentorship and how Iron Chats are helping coaches lead better and connect with mentors/mentees (14:25)

·      A couple things he wishes he knew when he started coaching a couple decades ago (20:54)

·      How his faith has impacted his coaching and how he has incorporated his faith into his coaching at both a secular and Christian school (24:39)

·      Establishing and maintaining healthy cultures in your teams (29:46)

·      Coaching the different generations over the years (34:35)

·      His defining moment as a player and life lessons he learned from it (39:25)

·      His most influential coaches and how he is using the lessons learned from them in his life today (45:52)

·      His thoughts on the good and bad of US soccer, and how lessons learned in Liberia can help soccer in the US (53:23)

·      How he is using lessons learned from the beautiful game in his relationships outside the game (1:05:22)

·      His recommendations (1:10:40)

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Iron Chats

·      Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Providence World (Donations to HSEL Podcast)

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast

·      Positive University Podcast

·      The Ed Mylett Podcast

·      Win the Day: 7 Daily Habits to Help You Stress Less & Accomplish More, Mark Batterson

·      The Christian Athlete: Glorifying God in Sports, Brian Smith

·      Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, Angela Duckworth

·      Inside Out Coaching: How Sports Can Transform Lives, Joe Ehrmann

·      Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex, John Gray

·      High Altitude Leadership: What the World’s Most Forbidding Peaks Teach Us About Success, Chris Warner

·      The Vision of a Champion: Advice and Inspiration from the World’s Most Successful Women’s Soccer Coach, Anson Dorrance & Gloria Averbuch

In Episode 54, Zac Hoffman, Author of Finding the Good Life as a SWALeader and former professional American football player in Europe, talking with Phil about intercultural competence, leading effectively in a foreign country, humility, playing American football in Europe, mental toughness and resilience, and helping players to overcome adversity. Specifically, Zac discusses:

• His story, how he developed his passion for football and leadership, his new book, and how he ended up playing football in Europe (2:12)
• The importance of intercultural competence in our leadership (9:23)
• Earning respect and leading effectively in a foreign country when speaking a different language (16:29)
• The importance of a humble, learning posture (20:07)
• Playing American football in countries that love the other (real) football (23:40)
• Lessons he learned when he transitioned to “the real world” after he retired from his football playing career (26:50)
• His personal why (32:11)
• Mental toughness and resilience (38:21)
• Importance of coaches helping their players overcome adversity (43:49)
• What he has learned directly from the game of American football that he has used in other areas of his life (47:13)
• His recommendation (50:31)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Finding the Good Life as a SWALeader: Effective Leadership in Our New World, by Zach Hoffman
• #Maxout Your Life: Strategies for Becoming an Elite Performer, by Ed Mylett

In Episode 53, Jesse Bradley, Pastor of Seattle Grace Community Church, Dartmouth College Men’s Soccer Alum, and Former Professional in Scotland and Zimbabwe, talks with Phil about developing healthy mindset and habits, finding our purpose, developing muscle memory in our decision-making, collaboration in leadership, healthy and toxic teams, leading with confidence and clarity, identity formation, servant leadership, leaders as followers, and parenting and marriage advice. Specifically, Jesse discusses:

• His story, how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and ministry, and how a reaction to prescribed medication drastically changed his life (2:47)
• Mindset and how we can develop positive habits and purpose (8:21)
• Developing muscle memory in our decision making and living out our values, on and off the field (15:55)
• The importance of collaboration in leadership, and how we can do it well (18:13)
• Developing healthy cultures and dealing with toxic team members (25:24)
• Leading with confidence and faith, not in fear (35:10)
• Transformational Leadership and the importance of clarity in healthy organizations (39:14)
• Shaping identity of our ourselves and our teams, well beyond performance (44:10)
• Servant leadership and the concept that great leaders need to be great followers (48:52)
• His personal why and how he lives it out every day (55:24)
• His programs to help people in their parenting, marriages, and shaping identity (57:00)
• What he has learned from the game that he has used in his marriage and parenting (58:58)
• What resources he has learned from over the years (1:02:52)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Jesse’s Website with free marriage, parenting, identity formation, and other programs
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• The Advantage, by Patrick Lencioni

In Episode 52, Paul and Phil recall some of the highlights of the first half of Season 4 and continue their conversation about the leadership genius of Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, and Nate the Great, covering Episodes 7 & 8 of the show. Specifically, they discuss:

• Highlights from the interviews we had with Diego Bocanegra, Lance Key, Will Russell, and Tracy Hamm in the first half of Season 4 (2:47)
• Making youth soccer more accessible to all kids, not just the wealthy, across the US (5:36)
• Specialization in youth sports (9:10)
• Using soccer to prepare our kids for adulthood (17:10)
• The power of connections between coach and player, as with Ted’s connection with Jamie Tartt (23:40)
• Ted apologizing to Nate the Great, and the power of saying, “I’m sorry.” (32:36)
• Lessons learned from Ted empowering Nate to give the pre-game speech at Everton (35:32)
• How the impact a coach can have on his or her players can last a lifetime in unexpected ways (40:20)
• The lessons learned from Ted’s darts match with Rupert in Episode 9 (44:10)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• The Warrior Way
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)

In Episode 51, Tracy Hamm, Head Coach of UC Davis Women’s Soccer, talks with Phil about her incredible journey to obtaining her UEFA A license and the documentary made about it (“Coach”), crashing big wheels and “pool sharking” as a kid, mentoring, creating and maintaining healthy culture, preventing toxic teams, understanding “the other” and other perspectives, integrity, and how pressure is a privilege. Specifically, Tracy discusses:

• Her story and how she grew her passion for soccer, coaching, and leadership (2:07)
• Lessons learned from her childhood crashing big wheels into walls and being a “pool shark” on the playground (7:04)
• Insight on an interesting recruiting story from her high school years (10:17)
• Her why and life purpose, and how it has played out in her playing and coaching over the years (12:11)
• The importance of mentors and mentoring as a coach (14:44)
• How she seeks to create and maintain healthy culture and encourage integrity on her teams (18:31)
• Toxic vs. healthy teams (22:11)
• “Coach,” the documentary about her quest for the UEFA A Coaching License, and what it feels like to be one of the few women to earn the license, and why it is important to get more women coaches in the game (25:07)
• The importance of taking time to understand “the other” in our lives (27:55)
• The importance of having different perspectives in coaching staffs and teams (31:16)
• What she is most excited about and most disappointed about in US Soccer (36:51)
• What she hopes her players have internalized before they leave her program (39:10)
• What she learned from the game that she has used in her life outside the game (41:16)
• Her book and podcast recommendations (42:36)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• “Coach” (Documentary)
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth
• “All or Nothing: Manchester City” (Amazon Prime)
• “Take Us Home: Leeds United” (Amazon Prime)

In Episode 50, we are continuing our Fan Favorites series by recasting our interview with Lee Baker, Owner of uScore Soccer and Director of Legacy Soccer Club, who talked with Phil about overcoming hardships, knowing and sticking to your “why,” setting and pursuing goals, using soccer as a classroom for life and leadership, modeling ethics and integrity, perspective, mentoring, and sacrificial living. Specifically, Lee discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and his journey to uScore and Legacy Soccer Club (1:48)
• What Lee has learned about leadership through hardships, and how he has grown through difficult experiences (5:56)
• The importance of mission, vision, and values to create clarity in your organization, goal setting, and really knowing your “why” (12:35)
• How uScore Soccer and Legacy Soccer Club are doing things differently and teaching his players life and leadership lessons through the game in their practices and “classroom” time (17:02)
• How we can teach and model character, ethics, and integrity, and compete at the highest level in our soccer clubs and organizations (23:22)
• How you can address parents and/or players who don’t agree with your organization’s mission, vision, and/or values (28:07)
• The importance of perspective and learning from the best in class, other cultures, and other disciplines (33:22)
• The benefits of mentoring in our organizations (38:46)
• How Lee uses lessons he has learned from the beautiful game in his marriage, parenting, and other areas of life (40:44)
• A fun conversation about a show that has impacted Lee’s thinking on how soccer explains life and leadership (43:39)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode –https://youtu.be/G2hp8-vAA6A
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• uScore Soccer website -- https://www.uscore-soccer.com
• Legacy Soccer Club website -- https://www.legacysoccer.org
• Ted Lasso (Amazon Prime) -- https://apple.co/3sDe9py

In Episode 49, we continue our Fan Favorites Series with our interview with Amanda Cromwell, Head Coach of UCLA Women’s Soccer, Former National Team member and coach, former pro footballer, and Olympic Gold Medalist, who talked with Phil about vulnerability, recruiting, pursuing justice, and infectious influence. Specifically, she discusses:

• Her experience in soccer and leadership from her club career, to University of VA, to some other cool stuff, to her current position at UCLA. (1:46)
• The most memorable leaders she has played and coached with during her illustrious career, and the qualities that set them apart from the rest (3:21)
• The critical importance of understanding and connecting with your teammates and players you’re coaching (6:10)
• Life and leadership lessons she has learned from the game itself (7:25)
• The importance of players, and all people, to experience and overcome adversity and failure early in life (9:50)
• What we can learn from our losses and failings (11:27)
• Leadership lessons (and some insider Bruin lore) from her Final Four experience in her National Championship season at UCLA (which also happened to be her first year at the school) (13:33)
• How to foster a healthy culture in a team full of elite players, and the difficulties of choosing captains (22:07)
• The non-negotiables of a captain (24:57)
• What she looks for in recruits (and their parents), how she works to prevent signing problem players to her program and how she deals with viruses who slip through the cracks (26:19)
• How to keep players content and motivated when they’re on the bench, or worse, not in the Top 18 (30:29)
• How she cultivates a healthy team culture with a team full of differing world views, political views, demographics, and backgrounds, even when people disagree on important things (34:18)
• Resources that she recommends to us (53:43)

Resources and Links from this Episode

Audio with subtitles available on our YouTube channel (video not available due to technical difficulties)

UCLA Women’s Soccer website & Social – https://uclabruins.com/sports/womens-soccer & @uclawsoccer

Amanda on Social -- @CromwellUCLA (Twitter) & @coach_cromwell (IG)

Corey Close on IG and Twitter --@coachcoriclose

How Soccer Explains Leadership Facebook Group -- https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership

“All or Nothing: Manchester City” – Amazon Prime

“All or Nothing: Tottenham” – Amazon Prime

“All of Notiong: All Blacks” – Amazon Prime

“The Social Dilemma” – Netflix

“Take the Ball, Pass the Ball” -- Netflix

How Soccer Explains the World: An Unlikely Theory of Globalization, by Franklin Foer

Failing Forward, by John Maxwell

Think Orphan Podcast “Two Perspectives on Abortion” Episode -- https://thinkorphan.com/2018/08/21/episode-110/

In Episode 48, we are continuing our fan favorites mini-series with a re-cast of our interview with Cori Close, Head Coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball, who talked with Phil about lessons she learned from her mentor, John Wooden, her personal “Why,” what a broom and a shovel have to do with leadership, her Close Conversations, healthy conflict, gratitude, Championship Level Habits, doing the next right thing, and how work done in the dark gets revealed in the light. Specifically, Coach Close discusses:

• Issues with specialization in one sport too early (2:52)
• How she developed her passion for soccer, basketball, and leadership, and how she got to be where she is today (4:02)
• Some lessons she learned while being mentored by the incomparable, John Wooden (8:56)
• Her personal “Why” and life mission, and how it informs her leadership (12:40)
• What are the things from sports that will stay with us for our whole life (14:44)
• Why she has a broom and a shovel in her office (18:55)
• How we can find and what we can learn from her Close Conversations on social media (21:44)
• Why healthy conflict and tension is necessary for any healthy team (24:34)
• A “have-to” vs. “get-to” mentality and why it matters (32:54)
• Creating and reaching Championship Level Habits (39:16)
• Doing the next right thing in the midst of the wrestle and getting back to neutral (45:57)
• What she wants her players to know when they leave her program (53:16)
• What she has learned directly from basketball (and soccer) that she has used in her life and leadership outside the game(s) (54:41)
• How the work done in the dark gets revealed in the light (58:34)
• Her book and podcast recommendations (1:00:44)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Coach Close on IG & Twitter (@coachcoriclose), and FB (Cori Close)
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, by James Kerr
• The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, by Stephen R. Covey
• Chop Wood, Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great, by Joshua Medcalf
• Burn Your Goals: The Counter Cultural Approach to Achieving Your Greatest Potential, by Joshua Medcalf
• The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else, by Patrick Lencioni
• Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
• The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation, by Miles McPherson
• “Two Perspectives on Abortion,” Think Orphan Podcast, Episode 110
• In Pursuit of Orphan Excellence: My Kids, Your Kids, Our Kids, by Philip Darke and Keith McFarland, et. al
• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, by James Clear
• It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Unexpected Strength When Disappointments Leave You Shattered, by Lisa Terkeurst
• It Takes What It Takes: How to Think Neutrally and Gain Control of Your Life, by Trever Moawad
• Win in the Dark, by Joshua Medcalf and Lucas Jadin
• The Focus 3 Podcast
• The Relentless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World, by John Mark Comer
• Fight Hustle, End Hurry Podcast with John Mark Comer and Jefferson Bethke

In Episode 47, we are re-casting our episode with Brad Miller, Founder of Soccer Resilience, Clinical Psychologist, and former Wake Forest soccer player, who talks with Phil about the four pillars of soccer resilience, how we can address anxiety and depression in sports, resetting and retraining our brains, fixed vs. growth mindsets, and whether we actually do play like we practice. Specifically, Brad discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, sports psychology, and leadership (2:11)
• The four pillars of soccer resilience (8:59)
• Anxiety and depression in sports and beyond (17:08)
• Why it’s important to know that “it’s not a you issue, it’s a brain issue,” and what that means (22:14)
• Resetting and retraining our brain, and what that looks like in practice (26:13)
• The concept of “what you celebrate, you practice,” and how it relates to the mindfulness conversation (38:03)
• Fixed vs. Growth mindset and what it has to do with soccer (46:02)
• Is it really true that you play like you practice? (58:01)
• Can we recreate the stress and pressure of a penalty kick in training? (1:01:26)
• How Brad has used the principles from soccer in his marriage, parenting, and other areas of life (1:05:03)
• Brad’s book recommendations (1:09:11)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Soccer Resilience website – soccerresilience.com
• Soccer Resilience YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUQEXctanLbfHYfTNfSOUig
• Uncut Video of the Episode – https://youtu.be/KYVQLmQCah4
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Phil on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Mindset, by Carol Dweck
• Switch on Your Brain, by Caroline Leaf
• Start With Why, by Simon Sinek
• “Start with Why” TED Talk -- https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action?language=en
• Think Orphan Podcast episode with Caroline Leaf -- https://thinkorphan.com/2020/10/27/episode-156-recast-caroline-leaf-switch-on-your-brain/
• The Power of Habit, by Charles Duhigg
• Atomic Habits, by James Clear
• Grit, by Angela Duckworth
• David and Goliath, by Malcolm Gladwell

In Episode 46, we are re-casting our conversation with Don Williams, Head of Operations for the Americas for Sports Recruiting USA and former coach at all levels of soccer, who talked with Phil about the #1 tool college coaches use to find recruits, how soccer players can find the “right fit,” the recruiting implications of the small world of college and pro soccer, “punching coaches in the nose” with player emails and videos, and real-world lessons kids can learn through the recruiting process. Specifically, Don discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and his long journey to SRUSA Soccer (1:31)
• How Don’s work with SRUSA is similar to his work as a coach of soccer teams at all levels (5:19)
• The need for players to have both raw athleticism and passion for the sport to play at the college level and beyond (11:06)
• The importance of soccer players finding the “right fit” and how they can do so (16:00)
• Why creating and knowing your budget is critical in the recruiting process (23:53)
• Selling yourself and not burying the lead in your videos, emails, and other recruiting communications with prospective colleges (and employers) (32:53)
• The importance of “punching someone in the nose” in the recruiting process (37:17)
• How to make videos on a tight budget (40:58)
• Making the kids put in the work with their videos, emails, and other areas of the recruiting process (43:33)
• The small world of college and pro soccer, and how it relates to the world outside the game (44:58)
• The #1 tool that college coaches use to find recruits (49:46)
• What most coaches are looking for when they recruit at tournaments and showcases (55:08)
• Showing the colleges (or employer) that you’ve done your homework on them and that you know why you think it’s the right fit for you (59:44)
• Real world lessons kids can learn during the recruiting process (1:03:50)
• How to grab a coach’s attention in a subject line and email (1:06:56)
• How Don is using lessons learned in soccer in his life outside the game (1:10:22)
• Don’s book recommendations

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Don’s Twitter handle -- @Don_K_Williams
• SRUSA Website -- https://www.sportsrecruitingusa.com
• How Soccer Explains the World, by Franklin Foer
• Inside Out Coaching, by Joe Ehrmann
• 10% Happier, by Dan Harris
• Inside College Soccer Podcast -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-college-soccer/id1480369430

In Episode 45, Will Russell, Founder & CEO of Russell Marketing and Executive Director of Russell Gives Foundation, talks with Phil about his work with Street Soccer USA, lessons he has learned from soccer and Premier League managers, success measures, his “why,” and the sacrifices needed to reach elite status. Specifically, Will discusses:

• How he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (1:51)
• His work with Street Soccer USA (3:57)
• Lessons he has learned from reading biographies of great managers that he has applied to his marketing work and other areas of life, including accountability and shared mission, vision, and values (7:32)
• Lessons he has learned from the beautiful game that he uses in his marriage and marketing business, including fixed vs. growth mindset (21:53)
• How different managers measure success and how he measures success in his life (33:11)
• Whether sacrifices are needed to reach elite levels in sports and other areas of life (41:12)
• Will’s “why” and how he lives it out in his life (50:29)
• His recommendations (58:58)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Will on Twitter and LinkedIn
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Contact Phil about DISC Training
• Jack Wilshere Goal
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol Dweck
• Wenger: My Life Lessons in Red and White, by Arsene Wenger
• Alex Ferguson: My Autobiography, by Sir Alex Ferguson
• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, by James Clear
• E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It, by Michael E. Gerber
• Living Forward: A Proven Plan to Stop Drifting and Get the Life You Wanted, by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy
• “All or Nothing: Manchester City” (Amazon Prime)
• “F1: Drive to Survive” (Netflix)
• “All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur” (Amazon Prime)

In Episode 143, David Irby, CEO of Surge Int’l, Former Azusa Pacific University Head Coach, Author of Undefeated: We are More Than Conquerors Through Him Who Loved Us, Sammy Surge, and Sports Ministry, husband, and father, talks with Phil and Paul about his ministry and coaching journey and lessons he has learned along the way, how soccer connects the world, the importance of baby steps and doing hard things in hard places, some insane stories from his adventures, the power of Christ, his books, winning and fair play, the power of moments, great lessons from great coaches, what he learned in Liberia that can help US Soccer, and much more. Specifically, David discusses:

·      His personal story, including how he grew his passion for soccer, leadership, ministry, and coaching, and how he ended up being one of the pioneers of soccer ministry and visiting much of the world over the past few decades (4:10)

·      His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out today (12:07)

·      His ministry journey and the different ministries he has worked with and is working with around the world, including some crazy experiences that no doubt will teach you some important lessons (15:54)

·      The importance of doing things without worrying about the impact that we actually see (24:30)

·      Why he wrote his books and how he hopes they will affect his readers’ lives (29:35)

·      How he incorporates his faith into his coaching and how it impacts his teams’ culture (38:40)

·      His defining moment as a player and life lessons he learned from it (46:08)

·      His most influential coaches and how he is using the lessons learned from them in his life today (49:42)

·      His thoughts on the good and bad of US soccer, and how lessons learned in Liberia can help soccer in the US (55:41)

·      How he is using lessons learned from the beautiful game in his relationships outside the game (1:00:33)

·      His recommendations, including a one close to home (1:05:21)

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Providence World (Donations to HSEL Podcast)

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      Undefeated: We are More Than Conquerors Through Him Who Loved Us, David Irby

·      Sammy Surge: Study Hard, Play Fair, Help Others, David Irby

·      Sports Ministry, David Irby

·      The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham, Harold Myra and Marshall Shelley

In Episode 44, Lance Key, Head Coach of University of Louisiana at Lafayette Women’s Soccer, talks with Phil about overcoming adversity and resilience, his personal “why,” stewarding family and team, prioritizing our platforms, creating, communicating, and reinforcing values, and reversing the trend of entitlement. Specifically, Lance discusses:

• How he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (4:02)
• How concussions ended his career and the life lessons we can all learn from adversity (10:10)
• His personal “why” and how he lives it out in the different areas of his life (24:21)
• The balance of stewardship over family and coaching (and other vocations) (33:29)
• The concept of our “platform” and prioritizing our platforms (45:10)
• The importance of a humble and learning posture (49:30)
• Creating, communicating, and reinforcing values in our teams (55:03)
• The recent rise of entitlement in our youth and how we can reverse the trend (1:01:44)
• What he has learned directly from soccer that he has used in his life and leadership outside the game (1:09:21)
• His book and podcast recommendations (1:12:30)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Switch on Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health, by Caroline Leaf
• The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas are Setting Up a Generation for Failure, by Jonathan Haidt
• All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life, by Mark Batterson
• I Can’t Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence, by Michael Jordan

In Episode 43, Diego Bocanegra, Head Coach of University of Houston Women’s Soccer, talks with Phil about how his childhood shaped his love for soccer, specialization, how we can give youth sports back to the kids, the state of soccer in America, what elite players have in common, his personal “Why,” his new podcast, and what he has learned from the beautiful game that he uses in other areas of life. Specifically, Diego discusses:

• How he developed his passion for soccer, other sports, and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (2:06)
• How his childhood experiences and his parents have shaped him and taught him lessons that help him in his coaching (6:09)
• His thoughts on specialization, and if and when kids should specialize in one sport (10:17)
• How he believes club and youth soccer are being taken away from the kids and what we can do about it (16:26)
• The state of soccer in America and how we need to make it more about the players’ flourishing (22:47)
• The common threads among elite athletes (34:43)
• His personal “Why” and life mission, and how it informs his leadership (42:03)
• The why and what of his new podcast, “Boca” (46:33)
• Clubhouse and how we can engage the new platform to help us and others flourish (52:35)
• How Diego used the lessons learned playing and coaching soccer in his stint in the financial planning and insurance world, and vice-versa (58:31)
• What he wants his players to know when they leave his program (1:04:19)
• What he has learned directly from soccer that he has used in his life and leadership outside the game (1:06:32)
• His book and podcast recommendations (1:09:40)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Diego’s “Boca” Podcast
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Changing the Game: The Parent’s Guide to Raising Happy, High Performing Athletes, and Giving Youth Sports Back to our Kids, by John O’Sullivan
• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol Dweck
• Rich Dad, Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!, by Robert T. Kiyosaki
• The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Rich, by Thomas J. Stanley, Ph.D, and William D. Danko, Ph.D
• Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, by Daniel Pink
• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth
• Toughness: Developing True Strength On and Off the Court, by Jay Bilas
• Black Box Thinking: Why Most People Don’t Learn From Their Mistakes, But Some Do, by Matthew Syed
• Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking, by Malcolm Gladwell

In Episode 42, our co-host, Phil Darke, finishes off this offseason’s talks by sharing five life lessons we can all learn from the beautiful game and apply in every area of our lives: 1) Maximum effort; 2) Always be on your guard; 3) Be able to make decisions on the fly; 4) Your work is important even if nobody sees it; and 5) Rest is a critical component of success. 

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Email Phil for information about DISC training and/or Coaching the Bigger Game program – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• The Warrior Way Program
• Sleep Smarter: 21 Essential Strategies to Sleep Your Way to a Better Body, Better Health, and Bigger Success, by Shawn Stevenson

In Episode 41, our next Offseason Talks series has our co-host, Paul Jobson, continuing his conversation with Marci Jobson, former USWNT, professional player, and Division 1 Coach, and mother of 4 boys (and Paul’s bride), about the final three pillars of the Warrior Way program: skill, mental toughness, and body readiness.  

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• The Warrior Way Program

In Episode 40, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our co-host, Paul Jobson, talking with Marci Jobson (yes, Paul’s bride), former USWNT, professional player, and Division 1 Coach, and mother of 4 boys, about The Warrior Way and its first three pillars: Worship, Work, and Serve.  

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• The Warrior Way Program

In Episode 39, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our co-host, Paul Jobson, talking about why a commitment to communication is a critical component of any healthy team.  

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Warrior Way Soccer Training

In Episode 38, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our host, Phil Darke, talking about the life and leadership lessons he learned from the seven rules for life that John Wooden learned from his dad and sought to live out during his time on Earth. We cover the last 4 of the rules in this episode: 4) Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible; 5) Make friendship a fine art; 6) Build a shelter against a rainy day; and 7) Pray for guidance and counsel, and give thanks for your blessings each day.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Warrior Way Soccer Training
• Coach Wooden: The 7 Principles That Shaped His Life and Will Change Yours, by Pat Williams
• Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer, by Oswald Sanders
• 12 Mighty Orphans (film)
• Braveheart (film)

In Episode 37, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our host, Phil Darke, talking about the life and leadership lessons he learned from the seven rules for life that John Wooden learned from his dad and sought to live out during his time on Earth. We cover the first three of the rules in this episode: 1) Be true to yourself; 2) Make each day a masterpiece; and 3) Help others.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Warrior Way Soccer Training
• Coach Wooden: The 7 Principles That Shaped His Life and Will Change Yours, by Pat Williams
• Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, by Simon Sinek
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, by James Kerr

In Episode 36, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our host, Phil Darke, talking about the life and leadership lessons he learned from the movie, “Searching for Bobby Fischer.” We all have a lot to learn from this movie about chess, as it speaks directly to our coaching, parenting, marriages, and other relationships, and also gives us a practical application for the first three offseason talks.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Warrior Way Soccer Training
• Searching for Bobby Fischer (Film)

In Episode 35, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our host, Phil Darke, talking about the importance of mentorship in your leadership and every area of your life, particularly how it is virtually impossible to flourish at your fullest without finding trusted mentors and mentoring others. We discuss the concepts of a personal advisory board, constellation mentoring, and 2x2x2 mentoring.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Think Orphan Episode with Peter Greer

In Episode 142, Brock Thompson, South Dakota State Head Coach and 2024 FCA Layton Shoemaker Award winner, talks with Phil and Paul about his coaching journey and lessons he has learned along the way, how he incorporates his faith into his coaching and how he does it in a secular school, the origin of the word, “Coach,” aligning priorities with faith, our need for accountability, the importance of belief, authenticity and vulnerability, how what makes America a great country negatively affects youth soccer, the power of “I don’t know,” and much more. Specifically, Brock discusses: 

·      His personal story and coaching journey, including how he grew his passion for soccer, leadership, and coaching, and what he is doing in retirement how he ended up at South Dakota State (5:41)

·      How his coaching stint at North Dakota is a big part of his faith journey (8:47)

·      His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out today (14:37)

·      How he incorporates his faith into his coaching (18:53)

·      Living out faith as a coach in a secular school (23:10)

·      What his faith has to do with his team’s success at SD State (25:58)

·      The need for accountability and where he finds it (29:17)

·      His defining moment as a player and life lessons he learned from it (33:38)

·      His most influential coach and how he is using the lessons learned from that coach in his life today (37:43)

·      His thoughts on the good and bad of US soccer, and how a great quality of America negatively affects youth sports in our country (43:41)

·      What we are missing in the training of our youth players (50:04)

·      How he is using lessons learned from the beautiful game in his relationships outside the game (57:36)

·      His book recommendations (59:13)

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Providence World (Donations to HSEL Podcast)

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life, Tony Dungy

·      The Traveler’s Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success, Andy Andrews

·      3D Coach: Capturing the Heart Behind the Jersey, Jeff Duke

·      9 Things You Simply Must Do to Succeed in Love and Life: A Psychologist Learns from His Patients What Really Works and What Doesn’t, Henry Cloud

In Episode 34, we continue our Offseason Talks series with our host, Phil Darke, talking about why he believes that understanding and implementing the DISC Model of Human Behavior will help you take a massive step toward a healthy team and healthier life, better understanding of yourself and your players, staff, and volunteers, learning how to resolve conflict, reducing turnover, working better together with everyone in your life, get more results, and have much more fun in the process.

On average, two people only have a 40% chance of communicating well and connecting with another person. Most of the time, they are likely to miscommunicate or struggle to connect with each other. Find out more about the tool that can help us overcome these statistics in this Offseason Talk.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com – to set up a call to discuss how DISC can help you in your leadership and other areas of your life
• Discover your DISC personality style - https://www.personalityservice.com/portal/ZERB/store

In Episode 33, we are taking a little break from our normal programming to have some offseason talks between Seasons 3 & 4. In these talks, Paul and Phil will be sharing some timeless leadership principles that will help you flourish by knowing and pursuing your purpose, honing your skills, taking your leadership to the next level. In this first offseason talk, Phil shares about how writing your own eulogy and knowing your why are essential to your ability to lead yourself and others with excellence.

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, by Simon Sinek
• Living Forward: A Proven Plan to Stop Drifting and Get the Life You Want, by Daniel Harkavy and Michael Hyatt
• 40/40 Vision: Clarifying Your Mission in Midlife, by Peter Greer

In Episode 32, Paul and Phil recall some of the highlights of the second half of Season 3 and continue their conversation about the leadership genius of Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, and Nate the Great, covering Episodes 5 & 6 of the show. Specifically, they discuss:

• Highlights from the amazing interviews we had with Cori Close, Greg Rubendall, John Yeager, and Clyde Best in the second half of Season 3 (3:46)
• Why Paul relates so well with Higgins and Ted’s brilliance in handling Jamie Tartt’s unhealthy behavior on and off the field (23:19)
• Danny Rojas & how teammates (in sport and in life) can and should push each other to be better than they ever would have been on their own (29:30)
• The importance of a coach/leader shaping culture and teammates truly loving and caring about one another (44:00)
• Information on exciting new courses and masterminds for coaches, and DISC Training and Consulting for club, college, and pro teams launching in July (49:13)
• The development of Roy’s leadership and what we can learn from it (54:41)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• Miracle (Film)
• The Coaching Zone: Next Level Leadership in Sports, by John Yeager
• The Acid Test, by Clyde Best
• Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, by Austin Cleon

In Episode 31, Clyde Best, MBE, former player with West Ham United, Feyenoord, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Portland Timbers, and Toronto Blizzard, former youth coach, former Manager of the Bermuda National Team, and member of the Bermuda Hall of Fame, talks with Phil about mentorship, self-awareness, the value of team sports in other areas of life, integrity and doing the “next right thing,” the infamous VAR, his beloved West Ham United, his faith, and how he has used lessons learned in his incredible playing career in other areas of life. Specifically, Clyde discusses:

• The value of mentors in football and in life (3:18)
• How he took the lessons learned from his mentors in the game and used them in his life after playing football (7:32)
• The importance of honing both your mental and physical parts of your game (11:17)
• How he can tell if someone has played team sports in their life (12:41)
• The importance of self-awareness and why it is important (17:39)
• Living a life of integrity and doing the “next right thing” (20:56)
• How he really feels about VAR, diving, and other not-so-great parts of the game (25:03)
• Life lessons we’re missing due to the introduction of VAR (27:16)
• What he learned from the game that he took to coaching youth and professionals (38:27)
• Things he loves about West Ham and things he wishes were different (42:30)
• Lessons he learned from the game itself that he used in his business (47:32)
• How his faith played into his playing, coaching, and other areas of life (48:52)
• Lessons he learned from the game that he has used in his marriage and parenting (50:10)
• What he has listened to that has informed his thinking of how soccer explains life and leadership (52:36)
• The importance of having a learning posture (55:14)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Clyde Best Foundation
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• The Acid Test: The Autobiography of Clyde Best, by Clyde Best

In Episode 30, John Yeager, Author of The Coaching Zone: Next Level Leadership in Sports, Positive Psychology Consultant, and Performance Coach, talks with Phil about his incredible new book, the 3 lenses of concentration, self-awareness and blind spots, harmonious vs. obsessive passion, PsyCap, polarity thinking, cultivating connections, providing effective feedback, overcoming confirmation bias and fundamental attribution error, and choreographing the “team dance.” Specifically, John discusses:

• How he developed his passion for sports and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (2:38)
• His new book, what inspired him to write it, and all the interviews and research that went into the book (10:06)
• The 3 lenses of concentration of a “Focused Leader” (i.e., self, others, team) and how they play out in sports and life (12:02)
• Self-awareness, shadow strengths, and how we can uncover and mitigate against our blind spots (15:32)
• Harmonious passion vs. obsessive passion, and how HALTS can help us (24:12)
• Psychological Capital (PsyCap), as it relates to self, individual team members, and teams, the acronym H-E-R-O, and how it relates to our lives outside of sport (30:19)
• Polarity thinking (e.g., humility/confidence, direction/empowerment, continuity/transformation) – what it is, understanding how we need to harness it in our coaching, on and off the field, and how different personalities may address it differently (37:55)
• The importance of cultivating connections and how we can do it well in every area of our lives (47:50)
• How we can effectively provide feedback to our teams (52:28)
• How to protect against confirmation bias and fundamental attribution error in our leadership, and what System 1 and System 2 thinking has to do with it (56:33)
• The leader as choreographer of a “team dance” between and among the “tops, middles, and bottoms” (1:00:02)
• What he has learned directly from the game of soccer that he uses in his marriage, parenting, and other areas of life (1:03:03)
• His book recommendation (1:05:11)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Contact John Yeager – john@yeagerleadership.com & com (also on LinkedIn and FB)
• Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Contact Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• The Coaching Zone: Next Level Leadership in Sports, by John Yeager
• Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence, by Daniel Goleman
• “The Focused Leader,” by Daniel Goleman, Harvard Business Review, 12/2013
• “On the development of harmonious and obsessive passion,” Genevieve Mageau and Robert Vallerand
• Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris Kearns Goodwin
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
• Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well, by Douglas Stone & Sheila Heen
• Becoming Better Grownups: Rediscovering What Matters and Remembering How to Fly, by Brad Montague

In Episode 29, Greg Rubendall, Livermore Fusion Director of Soccer Development and US Soccer Grassroots Coach Educator, talks with Phil about “deep practice,” college club soccer, the importance of fundamentals, developing healthy parent-coach communication, controlling the controllables, shaping the culture in a diverse club, overcoming entitlement, speaking the international language of soccer, and the professionalization of youth soccer. Specifically, Greg discusses:

• How he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (2:14)
• The value of College Club Soccer, from the sports and leadership perspective (6:31)
• The concept of “deep practice” and the importance of continuing to work on the fundamentals, in soccer and in life (13:57)
• The coach’s self-leadership and role in communicating with parents, and how we can coach the coaches to have healthy coach-parent relationships (20:13)
• Why coaches who played growing up can be dangerous (25:08)
• Winning vs. Development and controlling the controllables (32:39)
• How he shapes the culture of an entire club full of different coaches and players with different personalities and goals (37:38)
• The ills of entitlement and how Greg is working to mitigate against them in his club (48:43)
• The importance of fluency in the language of soccer/football in cross-cultural and international relationships (56:19)
• Pro and cons of the professionalization of youth soccer in the United States over the past couple decades (1:02:10)
• How he has used the lessons learned directly from soccer outside the game (1:12:48)
• His book recommendation (1:16:59)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Contact Greg - greg@fusionsc.org
• Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• How Soccer Explains the World: An Unlikely Theory of Globalization, by Franklin Foer

In Episode 28, Cori Close, Head Coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball, talks with Phil about lessons she learned from her mentor, John Wooden, her personal “Why,” what a broom and a shovel have to do with leadership, her Close Conversations, healthy conflict, gratitude, Championship Level Habits, doing the next right thing, and how work done in the dark gets revealed in the light. Specifically, Cori discusses:

• Issues with specialization in one sport too early (2:52)
• How she developed her passion for soccer, basketball, and leadership, and how she got to be where she is today (4:02)
• Some lessons she learned while being mentored by the incomparable, John Wooden (8:56)
• Her personal “Why” and life mission, and how it informs her leadership (12:40)
• What are the things from sports that will stay with us for our whole life (14:44)
• Why she has a broom and a shovel in her office (18:55)
• How we can find and what we can learn from her Close Conversations on social media (21:44)
• Why healthy conflict and tension is necessary for any healthy team (24:34)
• A “have-to” vs. “get-to” mentality and why it matters (32:54)
• Creating and reaching Championship Level Habits (39:16)
• Doing the next right thing in the midst of the wrestle and getting back to neutral (45:57)
• What she wants her players to know when they leave her program (53:16)
• What she has learned directly from basketball (and soccer) that she has used in her life and leadership outside the game(s) (54:41)
• How the work done in the dark gets revealed in the light (58:34)
• Her book and podcast recommendations (1:00:44)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Coach Close on IG & Twitter (@coachcoriclose), and FB (Cori Close)
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, by James Kerr
• The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, by Stephen R. Covey
• Chop Wood, Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great, by Joshua Medcalf
• Burn Your Goals: The Counter Cultural Approach to Achieving Your Greatest Potential, by Joshua Medcalf
• The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else, by Patrick Lencioni
• Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
• The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation, by Miles McPherson
• “Two Perspectives on Abortion,” Think Orphan Podcast, Episode 110
• In Pursuit of Orphan Excellence: My Kids, Your Kids, Our Kids, by Philip Darke and Keith McFarland, et. al
• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, by James Clear
• It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Unexpected Strength When Disappointments Leave You Shattered, by Lisa Terkeurst
• It Takes What It Takes: How to Think Neutrally and Gain Control of Your Life, by Trever Moawad
• Win in the Dark, by Joshua Medcalf and Lucas Jadin
• The Focus 3 Podcast
• The Relentless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World, by John Mark Comer
• Fight Hustle, End Hurry Podcast with John Mark Comer and Jefferson Bethke

In Episode 27, Paul and Phil continue their conversation about the leadership genius of Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, and Nate the Great, covering Episodes 3 & 4 of the show, and briefly discuss highlights from the first half of Season 3. Specifically, our hosts discuss:

• Highlights from the first half of Season 3 (4:38)
• Empowering our players and children to deal with bullies and be leaders (8:00)
• Recognizing leaders and getting them to understand and live out their leadership (12:37)
• Studying your team members and how Ted’s gifts to his players teaches us a great lesson (14:53)
• Cultivating an environment for our players and employees to flourish (17:00)
• How life’s trials and struggles can teach us great life lessons (24:32)
• The critical importance of a humble, learning posture in leadership (27:45)
• The precursors to Ted Lasso (36:55)
• Measuring success (40:00)
• How eating spicy food can speak volumes (43:04)
• Resolving conflict in our locker rooms and businesses (46:56)
• Not judging a book by its cover (51:21)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas are Setting Up a Generation for Failure, by Jonathan Haidt
• The Beautiful and Damned, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• A Wrinkle in Time, by Madeleine L’Engle
• Pele: Birth of a Legend (film)

In Episode 26, Max Rooke, Pepperdine University Women’s Soccer Associate Head Coach, Founder of Life to the Max, and former Reading FC Youth Academy footballer, talks with Phil about working with others wired differently from us, the importance of collaboration, getting players to put their own agenda aside, servant leadership, Pepperdine’s unorthodox recruiting tactics, and his leadership coaching philosophy. Specifically, Max discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to where he is today (2:22)
• The benefits of coaching and partnering in other arenas with people who are wired differently than you (13:27)
• What the game of soccer teaches us about collaboration, why it’s important, and how it applies to life outside the pitch (18:53)
• How we can get our players to set their own agenda aside and buy into the team mission, vision, and values (23:54)
• How his Pepperdine has shifted focus, what he has learned from the shift, how it has impacted the program, and what we can learn from the shift (26:37)
• The power of servant leadership (33:39)
• How Pepperdine does recruiting differently, and what their approach can teach us off the pitch (43:29)
• How his program vets the players’ character and motives in the recruiting process (51:29)
• His “Life 2 the Max” work coaching leadership and more (56:17)
• Lessons he has learned directly from the beautiful game that he uses in his marriage and other areas of life off the pitch (1:01:11)

• Max’s Recommendations (1:05:15)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Max’s Website
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, by James Kerr
• Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer, by Oswald Sanders
• Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill
• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol S. Dweck

In Episode 25, Del Leonard Jones, Referee/umpire in multiple sports, Author of three books, including At the Bat: The Strikeout That Shamed America and Advice from the Top, and former USA Today Business Journalist (nominated for Pulitzer Prize), talks with Phil about angle and perspective in refereeing and life, issues with VAR and instant replay, avoiding compounding mistakes, the law vs application of the law, respecting authority, and the #1 complaint referees get. Specifically, Del discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for sports, refereeing, writing, and leadership (2:26)
• The importance of knowing one’s angle and perspective in refereeing, and what it has to do with life outside of sports (12:14)
• The pros and cons of instant replay and VAR, whether we should get rid of it, and what life lessons we are missing because of its implementation (16:34)
• Make-up calls and compounding mistakes, and what life lessons we can learn from them (20:44)
• Power trips and referees making it about them, and what that can teach us about leadership outside the pitch (24:27)
• The law vs. application of the law, subjectivity in refereeing, and how it plays out in our life and leadership outside the game (28:30)
• The #1 complaint referees get, and what it has to do with other areas of our lives (31:37)
• Why we ought to respect officials, how we can properly do so, and how it relates to our lives and leadership off the pitch (40:36)
• Some great quotes from CEOs and other leaders in his book, Advice from the Top, and how they can help us in our life and leadership (47:58) (Below are some quotes from the book)

• How Del has used the lessons learned through sports in his life and leadership off the pitch (55:39)

Selected Quotes from Advice from the Top

• Joe Moglia, Former TD Ameritrade CEO and Head Football Coach of Coastal Carolina University (from the Foreword
  • “Just before Super Bowl XXXIX, I gave an interview to Del about the football lessons that apply to business. Here are a few X’s and O’s from my interview with Del:
    • Be sure your people are playing in the right positions.
    • Know the odds of success and the consequence of failure when taking a risk.
    • Ingenious game plans fail if no one is blocking and tackling.
    • Success requires spiritual soundness, dedication, courage and love. Love is the willingness to sacrifice for the team. It doesn't matter how many points you score if the team loses.
  • "In football and business there are star performers. Convince the stars that the only way to succeed is to reach team goals."
  • "The star quarterback won't be effective if he's on the ground due to lousy protection. In business, if your star running back doesn't recognize the importance of his blockers, you need another back."
  • "You can have good athletes playing the wrong position. Move underperforming employees to where they can be successful."

• Larry Brown, NBA and Dream Team Coach
• • “If your best player has great character, the chances of succeeding are incredible. If your best player is not of good character, then you have a problem.”

• Mike Eruzione, Captain of the 1980 U.S. Hockey Team on beating impossible odds

• • "Game winners aren’t luck. They’re practice and preparation unless the shot bounces off somebody's head and goes in."
  • "Miracles are one part luck, nine parts hard work."
  • "If you believe you're going to lose, you probably will."
• Ronnie Lott, NFL Hall of Famer with the 49ers
• • “It’s like players who invest time looking at film. Reflect on things you want to achieve each day.”
• Dan Lyons, Olympic Rower
• • "The best team members feed off each other. They are a little quirky and odd. Bland groups, no matter how strong and powerful, underperform. That's the strength of diversity. It's not just racial or ethnic or gender diversity, it's diversity of spirit, of seeing life and the world."
• Wynton Marsalis, Trumpeter, composer, bandleader on the leadership lessons of jazz
• • "When people trust each other they work for the common good. They are in sync and prepared for anything."
• Steve Young, Former 49er QB
• • “Perfect information is never available. Gut instinct is crucial. Play a little blind, throw the ball trusting the receiver will be there. Take advantage of a glimpse, a piece of information.”

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Del on LinkedIn
• At the Bat: The Strikeout That Shamed America, by Del Leonard Jones
• Advice from the Top: 1001 Bits of Business Wisdom from the Great Leaders of the Recent Past, by Del Leonard Jones
• The Cremation of Sam McGee, by Del Leonard Jones
• “Try Angles,” Referee Magazine (September 27, 2018)
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, by Daniel James Brown
• "Five Lessons on Leadership: What One CEO Learned as a Referee," Referee Magazine
• Miracle (movie)
• Leadership Jazz: The Essential Elements of a Good Leader, by Max Dupree

In Episode 141, Schellas Hyndman, United Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame Member, former Head Coach of FC Dallas, SMU Men’s Soccer (where he coached for 24 years), GCU Men’s Soccer, Eastern Illinois Men’s Soccer, and Murray State Men’s Soccer, husband, and father, talks with Phil and Paul about lessons learned during his incredible childhood, playing, and coaching journey, how his martial arts background translates to the soccer pitch, building trust and accountability in our teams, some stories about how he built trust with players and kept them accountable to the team standards, why coaching in the MLS was one of the best things he has ever done AND one of the worst things he has ever done, the most influential coaches in his life, changing your story, and much more. Specifically, Coach Hyndman discusses: 

·      His personal story and coaching journey, including how he grew his passion for soccer, leadership, and coaching, and what he is doing in retirement (4:36)

·      How his family fled Macau and made their way to the US during his childhood (23:41)

·      His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out today (30:31)

·      Lessons he learned from martial arts that he has used on the soccer pitch and the importance of cross-discipline learning (35:22)

·      How his experiences in his “estagio” (i.e., apprentice coaching) in Brazil shaped his coaching in the college game in the US (44:03)

·      The importance of building trust and creating an accountability system in our teams (50:52)

·      His experience coaching in the MLS professional game and how it was similar and different from the college game. Why coaching in the pro ranks was the best and worst thing he has ever done (54:10)

·      Why we need to pour into our young talent, particularly the underprivileged young players, and keep them accountable to values and morals, and how we can do it – and a story about a great player from South America that will definitely make you think (1:01:00)

·      His most influential coaches and how he is using the lessons learned from them in his life today (1:06:32)

·      How he is using lessons learned from the beautiful game in his marriage and parenting (1:12:04)

·      His book and other recommendations (1:16:40)

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Providence World (Donations to HSEL Podcast)

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      Changing Your Story: How to Take Control of Your Life, Create Change, and Achieve Your Goals, Bill Beswick

·      Living on the Volcano: The Secrets of Surviving as a Football Manager, Michael Calvin

In Episode 24, Phil Brown, Experiential Education Trainer at High 5 Adventure Learning Center and Host of the Vertical Playpen Podcast, talks with Phil about the value of community, healthy and unhealthy forms of leadership, how leadership is like gardening, the concept of “Connect, Empower, Lead,” the power of play, and how he has used lessons from soccer in his outdoor adventure leadership training. Specifically, Phil discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership (1:42)
• How he uses the lessons he has learned from soccer in his leadership training work with High 5 (10:33)
• The value of community and homegrown talent (18:40)
• The contrasting styles of a “celebrity leader” and a servant leader, why the distinction is important, and how leadership is like gardening (23:27)
• Transactional vs. Relational Leadership (28:19)
• The philosophy of “Connect, Empower, Lead” (32:19)
• The power of play and the teamwork neurochemicals (37:00)
• Homefield disadvantage during COVID (39:32)
• Retention of talent (43:25)
• How he has used the lessons learned from soccer in his marriage, family, and other areas of life (47:17)
• Phil’s recommendations (52:41)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• High 5 Adventure Center’s Website
• Vertical Playpen Podcast
• Vertical Playpen Podcast on Instagram - @verticalplaypen
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Inside Out Coaching: How Sports Can Transform Lives, by Joe Ehrmann
• Take Us Home: Leeds United (Amazon Prime)
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, by James Kerr
• The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact, by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
• The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, by Priya Parker
• The Social Dilemma (Netflix)

In Episode 23, Glenn Crooks, New York City FC Radio Commentator, Host of The Coaching Academy on SiriusXM FC, Writer/Host of Pro Soccer USA, Host of the On Frame and Soccer in the City Podcasts, Players Development Academy Head Coach, and Former Rutgers University Women’s Soccer Coach, talks with Phil about the best leader he coached, other coaches he respects, leading from the middle, empowering your team members, and learning from people different from you. Specifically, Glenn discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership (1:32)
• The best leader that Glenn has ever coached, and what made her great (6:30)
• Some of the life lessons that Glenn has learned from his decades of coaching and broadcasting, that is, the lessons he learned “after he knew everything” (12:02)
• Developing an internal language within your team (15:55)
• Empowering your team members (17:50)
• Learning from people from different backgrounds, professions, and walks of life (21:18)
• Finding the right person to send the right message at the right time (24:18)
• Leading from the middle (28:31)
• The coaches that Glenn respects the most and what sets them apart from the rest (37:12)
• One critical thing that he wanted to teach every one of his players (43:08)
• How he has used the lessons learned through the beautiful game in his life outside the game (47:55)
• Glenn’s recommendations (53:19)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Glenn’s website
• On Frame Podcast
• Soccer in the City Podcast
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• A Coach’s Guide to Teaching, by Doug Lemov
• “What is it like to play for Pep Guardiola?” – The Athletic
• This is Football, Episode 6: Wonder (Amazon Prime)
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
• The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else in Business, by Patrick Lencioni

In Episode 22, Phil and Paul briefly talk about highlights from the second half of Season 2, and spend the rest of their time discussing the leadership genius of Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, and Nate the Great. Specifically, our hosts discuss:

• Highlights from the second half of Season 2 (0:47)
• Overall thoughts on the value of Ted Lasso for coaches and other leaders (2:59)
• The value of a 30,000 foot view and outsider’s perspective in leadership (7:14)
• How taking on challenges is like riding a horse and how good things often happen on just the other side of comfortable (14:50)
• How sometimes the little things, like asking for a name or “Biscuits with the Boss,” make or break a leader (22:00)
• How organizations take on the personality of their leaders (27:28)
• The importance of posture of humility and learning when becoming a leader of an existing organization (31:04)
• How every decision should be made through the filter of your core values (33:10)
• Why Ted tells Sam, “Be a goldfish,” and what it has to do with Brad Miller’s discussion surrounding retraining our brains and Paul’s coaching principle, “Flush it or Forget about it” (35:10)
• The power of a birthday party and the concept, “Do for one what you wish you could do for all” (38:56)
• The importance of the “long game” in coaching, leadership, and in our families (42:52)
• Having the right perspective as we lead our people (50:01)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Video of the Episode -- https://youtu.be/dBVJYVEZlLQ
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV)
• Phil (@phildarke) and Paul (@coachjobson) on Clubhouse
• How Ted Lasso Explains Leadership on Clubhouse – Every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Pacific
• How Soccer Explains Leadership on Clubhouse – Every Friday at 9:30 a.m. Pacific
• Inverting the Pyramid: The History of Soccer Tactics, by Jonathan Wilson

In Episode 21, Clyde Best, MBE, former player with West Ham United, Feyenoord, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Portland Timbers, and Toronto Blizzard, former youth coach, former Manager of the Bermuda National Team, and member of the Bermuda Hall of Fame, talks with Phil about how he, as an 18-year-old from Bermuda, overcame racism he experienced as one of the first black players in the English First Division, and what we can learn from him as we address racism in our world today, the best leaders he played with (pretty amazing list), playing against and with Pele, and the importance of nurturing relationships with and gaining respect of your teammates and competitors. Specifically, Clyde discusses:

• His story, his incredible career as a footballer in the 1960s and 70s, and how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership (1:54)
• Clyde’s favorite memories as a footballer (his response may surprise you) (12:51)
• Racism Clyde experienced as one of the first black players in England’s First Division, how he handled the racism leveled against him, and what that teaches us about leading the charge against racism in our world today (15:16)
• The best leaders Clyde played with or against, and what made them such great leaders (31:06)
• What it was like to play against -and- with Pele, including a fun story about what Pele and Babe Ruth have in common (35:46)
• The importance of forming, building, and nurturing relationships in football and in life, and why we should never burn any bridges in our lives (40:25)
• The importance of gaining the respect of our competitors, and how Clyde did that over the course of his career (49:16)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Clyde Best Foundation
• Uncut Video of the Episode
• HSEL Facebook Group
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• The Acid Test: The Autobiography of Clyde Best, by Clyde Best

In Episode 20, Renee Lopez, former college coach (17 year veteran at all levels of college), former NCAA Compliance Director, leadership trainer, and author of Looking for a Full Ride: An Insider’s Recruiting Guide, talks with Phil about synergy vs. energy vampires, her “no complaining” rule, the importance of CIA, effectively facing adversity, making the most out of brokenness, measuring success, mentorship, and how to develop a healthy team. Specifically, Renee discusses:

• Her story and how she developed her passion for soccer and leadership (2:10)
• How Renee believes we can help others flourish by examining life and leadership through soccer (6:17)
• The concept of Kaizen and the exponential effect and synergy when individuals on a team all work to improve themselves (9:05)
• The synergy of healthy teamwork vs. the effect of negativity and “energy vampires”
• Her “no complaining” rule and the concept of CIA, and what they have to do with leadership (14:12)
• What researching 65 college coaches and athletic directors taught her (18:04)
• Facing adversity effectively by changing our attitude and perspective, and how that can help us through difficult times (21:31)
• How we can make the best out of broken situations, and possibly create better things because of the brokenness (25:16)
• How she measures success as a soccer and/or organizational coach (30:55)
• Critical components of a healthy team and tools Renee uses to equip a team to be healthy (33:58)
• Why goal setting is critical to success and how can leaders increase their chances of reaching their goals when they are developing and setting their goals (39:11)
• The importance of mentorship and surrounding ourselves with people smarter than us (45:13)
• The why and what of Renee’s book, Looking for a Full Ride (46:39)
• How she uses what she has learned through soccer in her family and other areas of life (52:23)
• Renee’s book recommendations (54:53)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Renee’s website – lookingforafullride.com
• Renee’s email – info@lookingforafullride.com
• Uncut Video of the Episode – https://youtu.be/X1IENduS_i4
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Phil and HSEL on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Looking for a Full Ride, by Renee Lopez
• The Power of Positive Leadership, by Jon Gordon
• The Power of a Positive Team, by Jon Gordon
• The Energy Bus, by Jon Gordon
• Leading with a Limp, by Dan Allender
• The Holy Bible

In Episode 19, Brad Miller, Founder of Soccer Resilience, Clinical Psychologist, and former Wake Forest soccer player, talks with Phil about the four pillars of soccer resilience, how we can address anxiety and depression in sports, resetting and retraining our brains, fixed vs. growth mindsets, and whether we actually do play like we practice. Specifically, Brad discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, sports psychology, and leadership (2:11)
• The four pillars of soccer resilience (8:59)
• Anxiety and depression in sports and beyond (17:08)
• Why it’s important to know that “it’s not a you issue, it’s a brain issue,” and what that means (22:14)
• Resetting and retraining our brain, and what that looks like in practice (26:13)
• The concept of “what you celebrate, you practice,” and how it relates to the mindfulness conversation (38:03)
• Fixed vs. Growth mindset and what it has to do with soccer (46:02)
• Is it really true that you play like you practice? (58:01)
• Can we recreate the stress and pressure of a penalty kick in training? (1:01:26)
• How Brad has used the principles from soccer in his marriage, parenting, and other areas of life (1:05:03)
• Brad’s book recommendations (1:09:11)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Soccer Resilience website – soccerresilience.com
• Soccer Resilience YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUQEXctanLbfHYfTNfSOUig
• Uncut Video of the Episode – https://youtu.be/KYVQLmQCah4
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Phil on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• Mindset, by Carol Dweck
• Switch on Your Brain, by Caroline Leaf
• Start With Why, by Simon Sinek
• “Start with Why” TED Talk -- https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action?language=en
• Think Orphan Podcast episode with Caroline Leaf -- https://thinkorphan.com/2020/10/27/episode-156-recast-caroline-leaf-switch-on-your-brain/
• The Power of Habit, by Charles Duhigg
• Atomic Habits, by James Clear
• Grit, by Angela Duckworth
• David and Goliath, by Malcolm Gladwell

In Episode 18, Rob Burns, Founder/Int’l Director of Missional Links-Wales, former youth player at Wolves, and former youth coach, talks with Phil about the effect of a toxic coach on the team, his “head, heart, hands” philosophy, how he applies soccer in his marriage and parenting, the importance of supporters in your life, the importance of a learning posture, and living lives of integrity and humility. Specifically, Rob discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership (1:51)
• How a toxic team environment caused by his coach led to him losing a love for the game, and how he got the love back (5:33)
• What we need to make sure we’re doing as coaches to avoid toxic environments (7:28)
• The “Head, Heart, Hands” philosophy, and how it plays out in soccer and other areas of life (10:04)
• Principles from the beautiful game that he used in his parenting (18:20)
• The importance of supporters in our lives and the disappearance of home-field advantage during COVID (24:04)
• Raising young adults and adults to live lives of integrity, and how it differs from raising younger children (26:19)
• Creating an environment where there is a freedom to fail and, simultaneously, a culture of taking responsibility for your actions (35:26)
• The importance of teamwork (37:47)
• His love story with his bride and how he uses lessons learned from soccer in his marriage and other areas of life (39:23)
• Giving leaders time to develop and implement their culture (47:04)
• Rob’s video and book recommendations (49:24)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Missional Links-Wales website -- https://www.missionallinkswales.org.uk
• Uncut Video of the Episode –https://youtu.be/Lr3u4BKJ6Ks
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Phil on Clubhouse -- @phildarke
• How Soccer Explains the World, by Franklin Foer
• A Matter of Life and Death: The History of Football in 100 Quotes, by Jim White
• Sir Alex Ferguson: Secrets of Success (Netflix)
• All or Nothing: Manchester City (Amazon Prime)
• All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur (Amazon Prime)
• Sunderland ‘Til I Die (Netflix)
• Leeds: Take Us Home (Amazon Prime)

In Episode 17, Phil and Paul talk about their favorite moments and key takeaways from the first half of Season 2, the power of mentorship, recruiting, setting clear expectations, problems with communicating via text, and living out our mission, vision, and values. More specifically, our hosts discuss:

• A rundown of the great interviews, themes, and key takeaways from the first half of Season 2 (2:14)
• The importance of letting our players and employees see leaders in their life outside the game (6:20)
• Living out your mission, vision, and values (8:39)
• Mentoring in our leadership and in our organizations (10:17)
• Paul’s thoughts on recruiting, including the limitations of video and some not-so-obvious things he looks for (19:34)
• How the recruiting conversation applies to organizations outside of soccer (25:21)
• Their thoughts on the Michelle Lenard episode, particularly the “cutthroat” game and the need for communication of clear expectations (27:11)
• A great story showing the problems with communicating via text and other technology (33:27)
• The importance of humility and owning mistakes in leadership at all levels (35:54)
• Setting and adhering to appropriate boundaries in our leadership (37:04)
• Thoughts on the Toriono Davis episode, and the use of DISC in mentorship and the game of soccer (39:26)
• A couple recommendations from Paul and Phil (48:24)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut video of the episode -- https://youtu.be/HmVfXZwIfD8
• For more information on DISC and implementing it into your program, email Phil – phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• “Ted Lasso” – Apple TV+
• Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream, by David Platt
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, James Kerr
• “The Queen’s Gambit” (Netflix) -- https://www.netflix.com/title/80234304

In Episode 16, Toriono Davis, Professional Scout in US and Europe, Connector, and Entrepreneur, talks with Phil about the ins and outs of the DISC Model of Human Behavior, how he uses it to connect deeply and quickly with his players and clubs, and help them reach their potential, the power and importance of mentorship, and why you might want to give your recruits a DISC assessment before signing or hiring them. Specifically, Toriono discusses:

• His story, how he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how a guy who didn’t even like soccer as a kid ended up working as a professional scout (3:05)
• What the DISC Model of Human Behavior is, why it is important to you and your teams, and how he uses it to help the clubs and players with whom he works to reach their potential (9:46)
• Why and how we need to tailor our approaches to our different team members based on their personalities (17:33)
• How leaders of soccer team/club and all other organizations can use the DISC to maximize their results more efficiently (25:53)
• How the DISC can help players and their parents understand each other better, help families, and help disenfranchised people as well (31:14)
• Whether certain personality types fit certain positions in soccer, other implications of personality assessments in the context of the game, and why coaches and employers may want to give their recruits personality assessments (37:58)
• The importance of understanding a player’s/employee’s motivation, hunger, and passion in your leadership of him or her (52:45)
• The importance of mentorship (which is throughout the interview) and Toriono’s book recommendations (58:08)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode –https://youtu.be/a5g9F3k7t5g
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Toriono’s LinkedIn Profile -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/fc-omega-disc/
• Toriono’s Website – FC-Omega.com
• Toriono’s Phone Number – 866-234-9864
• Questions about DISC and how you can learn more about it – email Phil at phil@howsoccerexplainsleadership.com
• “The Last Dance” documentary – ESPN+
• Mastering a Slight Edge, by Jeff Olson
• “Ted Lasso” – TV show on AppleTV+

In Episode 15, Michelle Lenard, Head Coach of Dallas Baptist University Women’s Soccer, talks with Phil about how to “steal like an artist,” DBU’s Leadership Council, how her team has used the Enneagram, what the game “Cutthroat” can teach us about leadership, setting and communicating clear expectations, the four H’s, implementing boundaries in our relationships, and servant leadership. Specifically, Michelle discusses:

• Her story, how she developed his passion for soccer, leadership, how she ended up at DBU (1:52)
• How we can “steal like an artist” – that is, some ideas that she has learned from others about coaching, life, and leadership, and how she has modified them for her program (4:35)
• The best leaders she has coached or played with, and what qualities set them apart from the rest (9:43)
• How the Leadership Council on her team develops, empowers, and delegates leadership to captains and other leaders in her program, and how it helps her coaching staff and has taken her program to another level (11:11)
• How she has used personality assessments to help her and her teams understand and work with each other better (16:19)
• The game, “Cutthroat,” how it has helped her develop leadership in her team, and how it translates to other areas of life and leadership (19:55)
• The importance of setting and communicating clear expectations (e.g., job descriptions) in your team members (e.g., coaches, players, employees), and how the 4 H’s have helped her team (24:53)
• How coaching and leadership are all about relationships, and that we simultaneously need to implement appropriate boundaries in those relationships (28:06)
• What she feels is critical for her players to internalize and “become” before they graduate from her program at DBU (30:53)
• How she uses the lessons she has learned through the beautiful game in her marriage, parenting, and other areas of her life, and vice-versa (33:42)
• Michelle’s book recommendations (39:45)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode – https://youtu.be/2A5a3pHG7Ts
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• DBU Women’s Soccer website: https://dbupatriots.com/sports/womens-soccer
• Michelle’s Twitter handle: @MichelleLenard1
• Acton School of Business website: https://www.actonnga.org
• Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, by Austin Kleon
• Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, by Cal Newport
• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol Dweck
• Coaching Athletes to Be Their Best: Motivational Interviewing in Sports, by Stephen Rollnick, Jonathan Fader, Jeff Breckon, and Theresa B. Moyers
• God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs, by Tim Keller
• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth

In Episode 140, Paul and Phil cover their favorite moments from the second half of Season 10, which included some great nuggets of wisdom from ultra-marathoners, coaching legends, and authors, as well as unforgettable stories that you definitely don’t want to miss. Phil and Paul also give some recommendations that you’ll want to check out.

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Uncut Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Providence World website

·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      The Christian Athlete: Glorifying God in Sports, Brian Smith

·      Think Global, Do Justice Podcast

·      Big Sam: My Autobiography, Sam Allardyce

·      Alexander Hamilton, Ron Chernow

·      “John Adams” Biopic

·      Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else, Jon Gordon

·      Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy, Jon Gordon

In Episode 14, Don Williams, Head of Operations for the Americas for Sports Recruiting USA and former coach at all levels of soccer, talks with Phil about the #1 tool college coaches use to find recruits, how soccer players can find the “right fit,” the recruiting implications of the small world of college and pro soccer, “punching coaches in the nose” with player emails and videos, and real world lessons kids can learn through the recruiting process. Specifically, Don discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and his long journey to SRUSA Soccer (1:31)
• How Don’s work with SRUSA is similar to his work as a coach of soccer teams at all levels (5:19)
• The need for players to have both raw athleticism and passion for the sport to play at the college level and beyond (11:06)
• The importance of soccer players finding the “right fit” and how they can do so (16:00)
• Why creating and knowing your budget is critical in the recruiting process (23:53)
• Selling yourself and not burying the lead in your videos, emails, and other recruiting communications with prospective colleges (and employers) (32:53)
• The importance of “punching someone in the nose” in the recruiting process (37:17)
• How to make videos on a tight budget (40:58)
• Making the kids put in the work with their videos, emails, and other areas of the recruiting process (43:33)
• The small world of college and pro soccer, and how it relates to the world outside the game (44:58)
• The #1 tool that college coaches use to find recruits (49:46)
• What most coaches are looking for when they recruit at tournaments and showcases (55:08)
• Showing the colleges (or employer) that you’ve done your homework on them and that you know why you think it’s the right fit for you (59:44)
• Real world lessons kids can learn during the recruiting process (1:03:50)
• How to grab a coach’s attention in a subject line and email (1:06:56)
• How Don is using lessons learned in soccer in his life outside the game (1:10:22)
• Don’s book recommendations

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode – https://youtu.be/B12pc9XvRTk
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• Don’s Twitter handle -- @Don_K_Williams
• SRUSA Website -- https://www.sportsrecruitingusa.com
• How Soccer Explains the World, by Franklin Foer
• Inside Out Coaching, by Joe Ehrmann
• 10% Happier, by Dan Harris
• Inside College Soccer Podcast -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-college-soccer/id1480369430

In Episode 13, Lee Baker, Owner of uScore Soccer and Director of Legacy Soccer Club, talks with Phil about overcoming hardships, knowing and sticking to your “why,” setting and pursuing goals, using soccer as a classroom for life and leadership, modeling ethics and integrity, perspective, mentoring, and sacrificial living. Specifically, Lee discusses:

• His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and his journey to uScore and Legacy Soccer Club (1:48)
• What Lee has learned about leadership through hardships, and how he has grown through difficult experiences (5:56)
• The importance of mission, vision, and values to create clarity in your organization, goal-setting, and really knowing your “why” (12:35)
• How uScore Soccer and Legacy Soccer Club are doing things differently and teaching his players life and leadership lessons through the game in their practices and “classroom” time (17:02)
• How we can teach and model character, ethics, and integrity, and compete at the highest level in our soccer clubs and organizations (23:22)
• How you can address parents and/or players who don’t agree with your organization’s mission, vision, and/or values (28:07)
• The importance of perspective and learning from the best in class, other cultures, and other disciplines (33:22)
• The benefits of mentoring in our organizations (38:46)
• How Lee uses lessons he has learned from the beautiful game in his marriage, parenting, and other areas of life (40:44)
• A fun conversation about a show that has impacted Lee’s thinking on how soccer explains life and leadership (43:39)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Uncut Video of the Episode –https://youtu.be/G2hp8-vAA6A
• HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership
• uScore Soccer website -- https://www.uscore-soccer.com
• Legacy Soccer Club website -- https://www.legacysoccer.org
• Ted Lasso (Amazon Prime) -- https://apple.co/3sDe9py

In Episode 12, Phil and our new co-host, Paul Jobson, Head Coach of Baylor Soccer, husband, and father when he’s not co-hosting this show, talk about the highlights in the second half of Season 1, DISC, Enneagram, and other personality tools, self-awareness, playing out of position, servant leadership and the importance of a humble, learning posture. Specifically, our hosts discuss:

• Paul’s excitement to start his newest role (1:23)
• The shaping of culture in an organization (5:23)
• The similarities, differences, and uses of DISC, Enneagram, StrengthsFinder, Myers-Briggs, Berkman, and other personality/human behavior tools (11:40)
• The importance of knowing yourself and your team, and the recruits for your team or organization (18:48)
• Covering for each other when we need to play out of position (24:00)
• Dealing with egotistical or other unhealthy characteristics of players and employees (25:10)
• Characteristics of servant leaders (33:11)
• The importance of a learning posture, discerning which new ideas you should implement into your team, and how to implement those new ideas (37:26)
• Tips from our first season guests that we are working to implement in our lives (45:35)

Resources and Links from this Episode

• Video of the Episode -- https://youtu.be/p7m27fw8cbQ
• The Warrior Way information – jobsonsoccer.com
• Take Us Home: Leeds United (Amazon Prime)
• Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life, James Kerr