In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Nick Saban’s timeless lesson on self-discipline and decision-making. The legendary coach breaks success down into two simple but defining questions: Can you make yourself do what you know you should, and can you stop yourself from doing what you shouldn’t? This episode explores how small choices compound into lasting results, why short-term comfort can sabotage long-term goals, and how the best leaders learn to do what others resist.
Our new Daily Coach Library Card gives you searchable access to every story we’ve ever written. Search by topic, challenge, or leader to instantly find the right article to teach, inspire, or motivate your team. Explore it now at search.thedaily.coach
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Novak Djokovic’s legendary bathroom pep talk during Wimbledon and the deeper lesson it holds about self-doubt and resilience. Even the world’s best wrestle with uncertainty, but what separates great performers is their ability to reset, reframe, and regain confidence when it matters most. Through Djokovic’s story, we explore practical ways to quiet the inner critic, refocus on small breakthroughs, and find strength in the reflection staring back at us.
Our new Daily Coach Library Card gives you searchable access to every story we’ve ever written. Search by topic, challenge, or leader to instantly find the right article to teach, inspire, or motivate your team. Explore it now at search.thedaily.coach
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Duke Women’s Basketball Coach Kara Lawson’s message on learning to handle hard better. Life doesn’t get easier, but we can get stronger. Drawing on insights from Lawson, Bill Belichick, and Admiral William McRaven, this episode explores how to focus on the present, find voices of encouragement, and view setbacks as growth opportunities. True leadership isn’t about avoiding difficulty. It’s about building the mental toughness to face it and rise again.
Our new Daily Coach Library Card gives you searchable access to every story we’ve ever written. Search by topic, challenge, or leader to instantly find the right article to teach, inspire, or motivate your team. Explore it now at search.thedaily.coach
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story of Serena Williams and the timeless lessons her career offers on perseverance and mindset. From redefining failure to mastering nerves and rejecting the myth of luck, Serena’s journey shows that greatness is built on resilience, preparation, and self-belief. Her approach reminds every leader and competitor that setbacks are not final, fear can be harnessed, and sustained excellence is the product of relentless effort and focus.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story behind Hofstadter’s Law and what it teaches us about patience, progress, and great work. Through the evolution of computer chess and the creation of Deep Blue, we explore why meaningful accomplishments often take longer than planned. The lesson is simple yet timeless. Anything of substance demands time, persistence, and faith in the process. True leaders understand that the goal is not to rush to the finish line but to dedicate themselves fully to the work that matters most.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Roger Federer’s powerful reflection on what true talent really means. In his Dartmouth College commencement speech, Federer challenges the idea that talent is only about natural ability. He reminds us that discipline, patience, self-trust, and love for the process are talents too. His message invites every leader and high performer to look inward, cultivate the skills within their control, and commit to mastering the inner game that drives lasting excellence.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit a profound lesson from Kobe Bryant on the role of emotion in leadership and life. Before his passing, Kobe spoke about the importance of stillness, awareness, and learning to work with emotion rather than being controlled by it. His reflections remind us that strength is not the absence of fear or doubt, but the ability to face both with calm and clarity. True leadership lies in emotional mastery, in choosing presence, purpose, and grace even when the road feels uncertain.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story of Lee Corso and the timeless lesson he teaches about leadership and authenticity. Before becoming a beloved icon on ESPN’s College GameDay, Corso spent years coaching in tough programs without the accolades or records many chase. Yet his humor, humility, and honesty turned him into one of the most respected voices in sports. His journey reminds us that leadership is not about perfection or prestige, but about being genuine, adaptable, and true to who we are.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story of Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, and his journey through rejection, resilience, and relentless pursuit. Before shaping one of the most successful film universes in history, Feige faced years of setbacks and uncertainty, including five rejections from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. His story reminds us that true success is not about avoiding failure but about embracing it, learning from it, and continuing to show up. Growth, like great filmmaking, takes time, patience, and the courage to keep creating through the challenges.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit a lesson on authenticity inspired by the film Good Will Hunting. A simple scene between Will and Skylar offers a powerful truth test that extends far beyond the screen. In leadership and hiring, authenticity is the foundation of trust. Through practical tools like behavioral interviews, repetition techniques, and values alignment, this episode explores how to identify honesty, character, and fit, the qualities that endure long after credentials fade.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley’s powerful reminder that real leadership is not about avoiding pain but allowing ourselves to feel it. After her team’s loss in the national championship, Coach Staley chose truth, vulnerability, and reflection over deflection. Her message challenges us to slow down, to sit in moments of disappointment, and to let stillness become our teacher. Growth and resilience are often born not from reaction, but from reflection.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters triumph and the deeper victory behind it. After more than a decade of near misses, McIlroy learned to separate his performance from his identity and to master the inner game of leadership. His journey reminds us that true success begins not with trophies or applause, but with self-awareness, presence, and the ability to stay grounded in the moment. The greatest championships, in golf and in life, are often the ones won within.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit a powerful story of respect and leadership between two of basketball's great coaches, Geno Auriemma and Lindsay Gottlieb. After a season of intense matchups between UConn and USC, both leaders modeled what true competition looks like: fierce, focused, and full of grace. Their example reminds us that leadership isn’t defined by the final score but by the respect, humility, and character we display in moments of triumph and defeat.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story of University of Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson and the four pillars that define his approach to leadership and culture. Through decades of triumphs and setbacks, Sampson has discovered that consistency, competence, confidence, and confrontation are the keys to building teams that last. His philosophy reminds us that leadership is not about avoiding hard truths but about meeting them head-on, grounded in trust, accountability, and resilience.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the story of Tobin Anderson, whose decades of coaching in small gyms led to one of the greatest upsets in college basketball history. Long before leading Fairleigh Dickinson to a stunning win over top-seeded Purdue, Anderson built his foundation through years of quiet dedication, persistence, and belief. His journey reminds us that talent exists at every level, opportunity can come at any time, and true leadership is found in showing up fully for the work right in front of us.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts’ message to his team at the start of the 2025 season. Fresh off a World Series championship, Roberts reminded his players that reaching the top is never permanent. The real challenge is the daily climb. His focus on discipline, mental preparation, and recommitment to winning one game at a time reveals what it takes to sustain excellence. For leaders in any field, his example shows that greatness comes not from a single summit but from the consistency to keep climbing every day.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the Golden State Warriors’ 2019 Finals loss and the powerful exchange between head coach Steve Kerr and general manager Bob Myers in its aftermath. Both men sincerely believed they had let the other down, offering a rare glimpse into true accountability at the highest level of leadership. Their example highlights three essential components of accountability: self-reflection, apologizing, and repair. This reminds us that setbacks don’t define great organizations, but how leaders take responsibility and grow from them does.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit Kirby Smart’s reflections on the hidden costs of leadership. After seven seasons at the helm and building Georgia into one of the nation’s elite football programs, Smart reminds us that true leadership isn’t only about victories, it’s about sacrifice. From making difficult decisions that hurt people we care about, to facing criticism and being misunderstood, Smart’s experience highlights three inevitable costs that come with leading at the highest level.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit the inspiring journey of Wyatt Hendrickson, whose path to becoming an NCAA wrestling champion exemplifies the power of mindset, preparation, and trust. From his small-town upbringing in Kansas to wrestling on the biggest stage under Coach David Taylor, Hendrickson’s story embodies Bill Walsh’s philosophy: champions behave like champions before they ever reach the podium. His dedication, humility, and unwavering belief in himself offer timeless lessons for anyone striving for excellence—on the mat, in the workplace, or in life.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we revisit why vulnerability—often mistaken for weakness—is actually a leader’s greatest superpower. Drawing on insights from Dr. Gabor Maté, we uncover how shedding the illusion of invincibility builds trust, fosters growth, and deepens human connection. From childhood defenses to the challenges of leadership, this episode reveals that true influence doesn’t come from perfection, but from authenticity, relatability, and the courage to be seen as fully human.
Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day–for free. Sign up today at https://www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.
