This newsletter is being sent to 40 individuals this week!
Why do people not take time for reflection?
Is it because they’re too busy? Is it because they just think they’ll change automatically? Arrogant or over confident?
We see this in coaching. Coaches running the same offense, same defense, year-after-year expecting different results. Same recruiting strategy. Because they haven’t took the time to evaluate their program and learn from their mistakes. This happens in business consistently as well.
The past couple episodes on the FCP (#79 and #80) we have talked about reflection.
The importance of it. In the past I’ve shared about all these bookmarks that I’ve saved on Google Chrome with leadership thoughts, articles on coaching, new AI tools, podcasts, books I want to purchase, etc. Always searching for the NEXT best thing.
How can I get 1% better and help pass on to others?
But, what I’ve realized (unfortunately, later in life) is that the key is reflecting on what we’ve already gone through. Instead of worrying about a new thought or nugget. How about we learn from what we’ve already endured? To the point where we can recite the experiences in our life. Something I’m getting better at, but far from the finish line.
In my 40 Life Lessons I’ve talked about creating a Failure Resume. I guess this goes hand-in-hand with reflection. Taking a step back and seeing how you’ve grown.
But, reflection should also be about the positive and impactful moments.
The time where you trusted your gut when everyone else thought about something else. The time where you said, let’s pivot here.
As Tyler Denk (co-founder / CEO of Beehiiv) said the other day in his newsletter, we deal with “different levels and different devils.”
Educate yourself. Learn from your mistakes. Reflect on your success.
So when we deal with the different levels and devils, we can be more impactful.
Episode #79 - Scott Brisson
Fun episode sitting down with Coach Scott Brisson. We talked about how he has navigated the world of college football coaching. From Division III to Lehigh and now as a P4 analyst at UCLA. We talk about his experience as an offensive coordinator, being let go, Shippensburg, Wake Forest, playoff run at James Madison, culture at UCLA, reflection and much more!
Episode #80 - Dave Pilipovich
Lessons from a 40-Year Coaching Journey with Coach Dave Pilipovich. Coach Pilipovich (current men's basketball assistant coach at Colorado State) shares insights from nearly four decades in basketball, spanning Division III, Division II, NBA G League and Division I programs. His experiences highlight the importance of patience and relationship-building. We discuss the impact from mentors: Jim Boone and Tim Loomis. Helping build Robert Morris and Eastern Michigan. Working at Michigan with Tommy Amaker. The unique challenges of being an interim head coach and the rewards of being the head coach at Air Force. All things Mountain West Conference. Making the Division I NCAA Tournament after 37 years at New Mexico! Being let go, continuous learning, flexibility, favorite restaurants and much more!
Book Review
(2017)
“Life isn’t fair, the sooner you learn that the better off you’ll be.” - Moki Martin
“If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.” - William H. McRaven
Start your day with a completed task.
Demonstrates discipline
Attention to detail
Having done something well
Find someone to help you paddle
You need people in your life to help you through difficult times
None of us are immune from life’s tragic moments
Only the size of your heart matters
If you let failure teach and strengthen you, you will be prepared to handle life’s toughest moments
Use previous failure as motivation
Who Dares Wins
Those who live in fear of failure never achieve potential
Be your very best in the darkest moments
Sometimes all it takes is one person to make a difference
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'“ - Isaiah 6:8
Portfolio Template
Yesterday, I shared on X that I’d include my portfolio with this newsletter.
This was created back in 2018 when I was applying for the head men’s basketball job at my alma mater. Although, I wasn’t able to get the job, this template has helped a few others secure head coaching jobs at the Division III level.
Best Podcast…Ever?
Had this one saved in my bookmarks. I’m always fascinated when listening to Chris Petersen. No surprise on why he is such a quality leader.
I truly believe every coach, in every sport, at every level needs to listen to this.
Great job by Zach Brandon on the Win More, Live Better Podcast.
What Else Have I Been Listening To?
Two podcasts featuring Matt Majkrzak. I’ve known Matt for years and am excited to see what he can do as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Northern Illinois. He’s always been the same guy, isn’t a coaching cliche guy and is willing to try things outside the box.
Fired Coaches Podcast started in May 2020. The podcast interviews coaches, scouts, media and others connected to the sports world that fell from the mountaintop. They were either fired, resigned or told that their contract would not be renewed. Level does not matter. The story does.