The "I" in Win

S2 #21. Thanks for listening to episode 21 of season two on The "I" in Win podcast. This episode features, Brad Fortney, who is the performance and wellness coach for Enterprise City Schools District in Alabama. In addition to coaching football and track, Coach Fortney works with the district's six elementary, two middle schools and the high school sports teams on movement and performance.Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedIn Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #20. This episode is a little unique as it tells the story of Vinnie Panico, who in 2017 suffered a catastrophic knee injury during a football game his junior season. An injury so severe that doctors focused on saving his leg rather than getting him back on the field.  I wanted to have Vinnie tell his courageous story to remind us all about the power of BELIEF and PERSEVERANCE when faced with great adversity. I have no doubt you're going to walk away inspired and reminded how important it is for all of us to believe, support and motivate those who we lead.Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedIn Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #19.  Season 2 of The "I" in Win continues with today's guest, Terry Harrison, who is the Head Football Coach at Friends University located in Wichita, Kansas. Coach Harrison has developed a reputation of rebuilding programs. Prior to Friends, Coach Harrison took over a 1-9 Bethel College program in 2018 and turned them into a nationally ranked team in just a few short years, and now he's faced with a similar situation at Friends University.Covered in this episode:What it takes to rebuild a programCreating a "big-time" experience for athletesEstablishing RelationshipsWhy the FlexboneFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedIn Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #18. Welcome to The "I" in Win, the show that focuses on why leaders should focus less on outcomes and more on the journey of changing lives. Thanks for continuing to help grow the show, and please share it with those who will find value in it.This episode features Leo Watkins, a sports performance coach,  who does a deep dive into health and fitness and the benefits a sound S&C program can  have on helping people find the best versions of themselves.In this episode, Coach shares his thoughts on:Advantages of JUCO for some student-athletesDeficiencies in young athletes todayProperly teaching speedImportance of nutritionCoach Watkins on Twitter Coach Watkins on IGFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedIn Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #17. Thanks for listening to The "I" in Win, the podcast that shares why leaders will benefit by obsessing less on outcomes and more on the journey of changing lives. Today I'm featuring head football coach at Providence Catholic High School (IL), Tyler Plantz, who after spending 10 years at the University of Notre Dame, as both a player and a coach, decided to come home to his alma mater and in his first year led the Celtics all the way to the state championship game.In this episode, we discuss how his championship experiences at both Notre Dame and Providence Catholic High School have prepared him to be a head coach, why developing men through relationships is so important to him, & the Zac Plantz Foundation and how we all can help. Resources from this Episode:The Zac Plantz FoundationCoach Plantz on Twitter (@Tyler_Plantz)Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #16. Pumped to introduced today's guest, Scott Goolsby, Defensive Coordinator at Auburn High School in Alabama. Coach Goolsby has 23 years experience as a teacher/coach, with the last 10 years being at Auburn.  In addition to being named top assistant coach in the state of Alabama multiple times, Coach has turned himself into somewhat of a Twitter sensation with his video parodies of football coaches, which connected me to Coach Goolsby as well.In this episode, we discuss:The impetus behind his Twitter videosHow experience evolves a coachBeing demanding w/o being demeaningImportance of telling kids you love themFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #15. Thanks for listening today! REALLY appreciate you sharing the show with those who may find value, so please continue to spread the news of The "I" in Win podcast, which is the show that focuses on people rather than outcomes. And with that, let me welcome in today's guest, Ryan Kirkorsky, who is the head girls basketball coach and an English teacher at Rolling Meadows High School in Illinois.  Coach Kirkosky is in his 27th year as a teacher/coach and has coached every level of high school basketball. In this episode, we cover:Commitment statements Creating energy at practiceImproving communication w/playersWhy 'joy' is a program standard Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #14. Jack Moses is a D1 football player turned writer & podcaster, who focuses his content on self-Improvement, psychology, and mindset.  Currently a junior at Northwestern University, Jack shares his insight on topics relevant to anyone, regardless of age or profession:Fighting imposter syndrromeFocusing on daily processesSteps to becoming to best YOUHis love for entrepreneurshipIf you're interested in subscribing to Jack's weekly newsletter, The Weekend Drift, click here to learn more.Here's a link to Jack's social media handlesMindset by Carol S. DweckFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #13. Welcome to season 2, episode 13 of The "I" in Win podcast. Thank you so much for listening! Before introducing this episode's guest, I have to ask a favor: Please continue to share the show. As I mentioned on the previous episode, we are just on a threshold of 20,000 downloads and look forward to surpassing and continuing to spread the message of people over outcomes. Selfishly, I love hearing from listeners,  so also reach out to me to discuss how we all can make the biggest impact through this podcast. And with that I know today's guest is going to be great! Welcome BRANDON KRECZMER, who is a LB at Western Illinois University. Coach Kreczmer has experience at the high school level as a head coach and at the D3 level as an assistant coach, so he has a wide array of experience, and someone to keep an eye on as he continues to climb the coaching ranks.Follow Coach Kreczmer on Twitter: @KreczmerWIUIn this episode, we discuss:What makes a great assistant coachHow to put the players first despite the pressures to win at the D1 levelWhy three words mean so muchDifferences between coaching at the HS/collegiate ranksFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #12. Welcome to The "I" in Win podcast that is fast approaching 20,000 downloads, which is unreal to even be saying right now. Please continue to share the show with those who may find value in it, and my hope is today's guest is going to help us surpass that 20,000 download threshold!So with that I want to introduce you to a former player, now assistant coach on my staff, and more importantly, a friend. You may know him as "Andrew S" from the Bachelor Series; however, I know him just as Andrew Spencer, or better yet, just "Spencer."In this episode, we cover:Lessons learned as a HS athleteThe life-changing impact coaches can have Unique dynamic of coach-athlete of different racesWhy we need to listen & communicate more with our athletesFollow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens) or LinkedInTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.

S2 #11. I'm so humbled and thankful for the growth and the reach of the show. That cannot happen without you, our listeners. So thank you so much and please continue to share The "I" in Win with anyone who might find value because word of mouth is how we all can make the biggest impact. And with that, excited to introduce today's guest, Drew Bogan, who is a history teacher and head lacrosse coach at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis, IN. After researching Coach Bogan, I'm certain we will all walk away better leaders after learning his purpose, his vision, and his goals. Resources from this episode:Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner ExcellenceLegacyBe Where Your Feet Are: 7 Principles to Keep You Present, Grounded, and ThrivingTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #10. Today's guest is Rodney Saulsberry, who is in his 25th season at White Haven High School (TN), and 19th as a head  football coach. He has an overall record of 180-48  with two Tennessee 6A state titles. Over 200 of Coach Saulsberry's former players have gone on to play college football and 15 of them have become coaches. He has served on the Board of Tennessee Football Coaches Association and  on the Rules Committee for the TSSAA. In 2020, he co-founded the Minority Coaches Association of Tennessee, which helps high school, college, and professional coaches in Tennessee foster job opportunities and hosts clinics for continuing education.  Saulsberry, who also serves as the math teacher, has earned many awards over his time as head coach, such as 2x Tennessee Titans Coach of the Year, 3x Regional  Coach of the Year, and the 2022 AFCA Power of Influence Award.    To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE. Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #10. Today's guest is Rodney Saulsberry, who is in his 25th season at White Haven High School (TN), and 19th as a head  football coach. He has an overall record of 180-48  with two Tennessee 6A state titles. Over 200 of Coach Saulsberry's former players have gone on to play college football and 15 of them have become coaches. He has served on the Board of Tennessee Football Coaches Association and  on the Rules Committee for the TSSAA. In 2020, he co-founded the Minority Coaches Association of Tennessee, which helps high school, college, and professional coaches in Tennessee foster job opportunities and hosts clinics for continuing education.Saulsberry, who also serves as the math teacher, has earned many awards over his time as head coach, such as 2x Tennessee Titans Coach of the Year, 3x Regional  Coach of the Year, and the 2022 AFCA Power of Influence Award.  To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #9. If you spent any time inside of a high school, then you know, the athletic director is one of the most important roles, working mainly behind the scenes, ensuring athletes have a first-class experience. It can be a thankless job at times requiring exhausting hours, but thankfully we have people who continue to answer the call. Proud to introduce today's guest, Mark Ribbens, athletic director at Wauconda High School in Illinois since 2017. Mark and I have known each other since 2004, when he served as an assistant coach of my staff. In this episode we discuss:Challenges facing HS athletic todayNavigating parent-coach relationshipsSteps to becoming an ADTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #8. Many of us tend to believe that we have it harder than the guy next to us; that we're so busy, there's no time to do the things that matter most, like working out, reading, writing, and hanging out with our family. Well, today's guest, Michael Schanhals  may actually be too busy for all these things.Hope College (MI) men's lacrosse coach Michael Schanhals has a long association with the program, first as a student-athlete, then as coach of the college's club team, and now as head coach of Hope varsity program since the 2013 season.Schanhals has guided the Flying Dutchmen to two NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, three regular-season MIAA titles and double-digit wins five times, including a team-record 15 wins in both 2022 and 2018.  In 2019, Schanhals led Hope its first NCAA Division III Tournament victory with a 22-17 win in the first round at Illinois Wesleyan University.  In 11 season, Hope is 96-46 during Schanhals' tenure. (courtesy of Hope Athletics)To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #7. Really excited for today's guest who's one of the most respected coaches in the state of Illinois...not just because of his success on the field, but also due to the fact of who he is off the field. Joe Sanchez is the head football coach at Barrington High School for the past 21 years, and has been a social studies teacher at Barrington for 27 years.In this episode, we're going to discuss the parallels between being a head football coach and being a parent and how humility, effective communication and trusting the process are crucial to our success.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

S2 #6. This is a really exciting episode for me personally because I have not one, but two Gagliardi Trophy semifinalist, which is awarded to the  Division 3 Player of the Year. We welcome on Joey Stutzman (RB, UWL) and Evan Lewandowski (QB, UWW), two players I was very lucky to coach and get to know as people. In this episode we discuss:Life as a D3 athleteCharacteristics of the best coachesWhy teachers/coaches are so importantTheir life-long friendship with Chicago Bears ILB, Jack SanbornResources from this episode:The Gagliardi Trophy seminfinalistsTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#55. My guest today is Coach Pat Sullivan, who has over 600 wins as a head basketball coach and has been ducted into eight different hall of fames over his 44 year career. In 2010, Coach Sullivan retired from the University of St. Francis, where he spent 34 years earning 500 victories, and leading his team to either a first or second place finish 15 times. However, as he will tell you, his proudest accomplishment is having 98% of his seniors graduate. Referenced in this episode:Coach Sullivan's booksTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#54.  Thanks for listening to The "I" in Win podcast! Today we feature English teacher/Head Girls Soccer Coach at North Muskegon High School (MI), Caleb Parnin. In his episode, we're going to discuss his unique journey from soccer player to coach, what he's learned from winning a state championship, and why he decided to make culture a yearly focus.Referenced in this episode:How to Build and Sustain a Championship CultureThe Culture SystemTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#53. As an independent certified coach, teacher, trainer and speaker with The John Maxwell Team, Todd Kuckkahn is an incredible resource for your intentional growth in your professional and/or personal life. In this episode, we discuss:Complexities of cultureWhy leaders need to listen more and talk lessHow a simple postcard can change your life, and“The biggest gap in life is between what we know and what we do.” To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#52. Season two continues with a guest I've known for years. He's gone from my coaching adversary to trusted assistant, and most importantly, a great friend. His name is Tayler Erbach, a former high school teacher who is now coaching adults on the importance of physical fitness as Director of Operations at Manduu. In this episode, we're going to discuss Manduu's unique footprint in the physical fitness industry, the difference between motivating teenagers vs. adults, and why he believes regardless of the industry, people, service and happiness make the difference.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#51. Coach Marsha Frese, Loyola University Women's Basketball Assistant Coach, has over 20 years of coaching at the D1 level. In this episode, Coach Frese discusses:3 P'sBeing an empathetic coachToughness of today's athletesBalancing being a coach and a momTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

Season 2 is almost here, releasing on Tuesday, Nov. 1, but before that happens...HERE WE GO! The #1 dowloaded episode from Season 1 featuring Principal/Head Football Coach, Shane Jacobs, Peabody HS (TN).Shane Jacobs has arguably the most unique title in education: Principal/Head Football Coach. Given his unparalleled success on the field, Peabody High School (Trenton, TN) decided to promote Coach Jacobs first to AP, and most recently, Principal. On the gridiron, Coach Jacobs has won state titles in 2014, 2018, 2019, 2020, and at the time of recording, had his team on a 43-game win streak. Coach Jacobs's philosophy is cemented on his belief that every teacher and coach has an obligation to treat each child as if he/she is their own. It is that culture that Coach Jacobs is now striving to infuse into the entire community of Peabody High School.Show Notes:Coach Jacobs on TwitterPeabody High SchoolMy Contact Info:The "I" in Win WebsiteLukeMertens44@gmail.comTwitter: @LukeMertensIG: LukeMertens44LinkedIn Profile

We're on #2 of the top downloaded episodes of Season 1! In the first ever episode of  The “I” in Win, one of the most iconic figures in LA HS history, J.T. Curtis, shares how he's developed his football program at John Curtis Christian School into one of the most successful programs in the country, both on and off the field. Headmaster, Athletic Director, and Head Football Coach, JT Curtis has been impacting young people's lives for over 5 decades at the small Christian school located in River Ridge, LA.  Since beginning his career in 1969, he has one of the most uniquely successful stories you'll ever hear.  The school, which is K-12, was founded by JT's father in 1962. After going 0-10 his first year, JT is now the winningest active coach in the history of football with over 600 victories and 27 State Championships.He believes every kid deserves a chance, so he has a no-cut policy. He believes so deeply in the concept of team, he doesn't even keep individual records. And most importantly, JT believes athletics are not about outcomes; they're platforms to help athletes become better people and reach their fullest potential.John Curtis Christian School WebsiteJCCS Athletic WebSiteBook Referenced:Hurricane Season by Neal ThompsonMy Contact Info:LukeMertens44@gmail.comTwitter: @LukeMertensIG: LukeMertens44LinkedIn Profile

Onto #3 of the top 5 most downloaded episodes of Season 1...Today's guest, John Nee, has been a teacher and coach at his alma mater St.Rita High School on the south side of Chicago for the past 25 years. In addition to his classroom responsibilities as an English teacher, Coach Nee is head coach of the baseball team and an assistant varsity football coach. He's passionate about impacting kids and today's going to discuss his influences, how he has grown as an educator, what he does to develop his players off the field and why having our players' best interests in mind makes for the best decision making coach.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

We are continuing to countdown the top 5 downloaded episodes from Season 1, and the 4th most downloaded episode is “Nothing Without Work” with Jim Konrad who has had a unique path into education. While in medical school, he was coaching a youth team and fell in love with the idea of teaching and coaching for a career, so he left medical school after his second year to pursue a career in education. In 1997, Jim was hired by his alma mater,  Naperville North HS (IL), and became the head soccer coach in 2003. NN soccer program accomplishments during his 18 years as HC:Myro Rys Sportsmanship Award Winner3 State Championships (including a 45 game winning streak)4 Final 4 appearances7 Final 8 appearances16 Dupage Valley Conference ChampionshipsUSC National Coach of the Year (2018)NFHS National Coach of the Year (2019)His program is based upon the idea of "Nothing Without Work" (Sine Labore Nihil), and clearly, Coach Konrad's dedication to his team off the field is yielding the result on the field.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

Welcome to this special edition of The “I'' in Win podcast, as we officially wrap up Season 1! Since launching the podcast last September, I have released 52 episodes, met coaches, teachers, and other leaders literally across the country, and received well over 10,000 downloads…all of which if beyond my wildest expectations. To celebrate, I am re-releasing the top 5 most downloaded episodes of Season 1, and #5 is...Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)Email: lukemertens44@gmail.com

Welcome to this special edition of The “I'' in Win podcast, as we officially wrap up Season 1! Since launching the podcast last September, I have released 52 episodes, met coaches, teachers, and other leaders literally across the country, and received well over 10,000 downloads…all of which if beyond my wildest expectations. However, onne question I continue to get is “Why?"So I wanted to share the genesis behind The “I” in Win...Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)Email: lukemertens44@gmail.com

#50. This episode features Michael Wiggins, Head Boy's Soccer Coach at Hinsdale Central High School in Illinois. Coach Wiggins has been a head coach for over 28 years, and during that time, he has tallied 385 wins. He has also coach for (4) All-Americans, earned Coach of the Year honors multiple times, and won a state title in 2014. In this episode, we discuss:Coach longevityHis soccer central programHow he develops better people, not just better soccer playersThe importance of a coach's family Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#49. Today we are joined by Sarah Teipel, who is the new Head Girls Basketball Coach at Mundelein High School in IL.  Coach Teipel spent the previous 9 years as head coach at Dundee-Crown (Carpentersville, IL), winning 2 conference championships, 4 regional championships, a sectional title in 2020 & was twice named Coach of the Year.In this episode, we are going to discuss:Building relationships, Establishing standards, Focusing on daily improvement, and How teams with a strong culture providing positive life experiences can help provide wins both on the court and in life.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#48. In this episode, we welcome in Greg Jones, assistant football coach at University of Oregon. In this episode, we dive into how coach Jones made the leap, after 30 years of success in the high school level, into the Power Five; what he's learned from the process of now being a D1 coach; how he has built championship programs at all the stops he's made along his career; and how he has earned trust both at the high school level and now with the college football players he works with at Oregon.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#47. This episode features Hank Plona, who has been the head men's basketball coach at Indian Hills Community College in Iowa for the past seven years. During that time, Coach Plona has amassed 196 victories, which is the most wins in junior college.  He has also had 57 players graduate and sign at D1 schools, also the most in junior college. In this episode, we're gonna dive into coaches who have influenced Coach Plona, how he defines success, the uniqueness of coaching at the Juco level, how he gets his players to embrace the hard aspects of life and what sets his program apart.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#46.  This episode features an uncommon leader who exudes positivity. Jeremy Kauffman is a social studies teacher at Deerfield High School (IL) and head track as well as head cross-country coach at Lake Zurich High School (IL). In this episode, we cover a multitude of conversations in the world of coaching and education, such as coaching boys versus girls sports, coaching middle school versus high school, and coaching his own children, which he has done over the past several years.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#45. Today we have on Bob Pieper, who has been in education since 1991, working first at Crete-Monee High School in Crete, Illinois, before coming to Glenbrook North (Northbrook, IL) in 1997, where he's been ever since. Bob has done it all in education: Teacher, Dean, AD, Head Football Coach, assistant for wrestling, baseball, basketball, and track. Bob has been a featured speaker for the Illinois Athletic Director's Conference; the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association; and national Gatorade presenter. He is a two-time coach of the year honoree and in 2018 was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. In this episode, coach is going to share the mistakes he has made, what the significant turning point was in his career, the biggest challenges facing teachers and coaches today and how we can overcome them, and finally coach will share his proudest moments and what legacy means to him.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#44. This episode features Kevin Devitt assistant basketball coach at Niagara University. In this episode, we'll discuss Coach Devitt's fascinating journey to becoming a D1 basketball coach, what it takes to get to that level, what his vision is once he becomes a head coach, and how we keep the main thing, the main thing as coaches. To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#43. This episode features Chris Fore, a veteran educator, athletic director and football coach from Southern California. Coach Fore currently serves as the principal at the Palmdale Aerospace Academy (Palmdale, CA). He's also authored three books, been featured in numerous publications, and since all of that is not enough to occupy his time, he also operates two websites: Coachfore.org that provides coaches and athletic directors with resources to be successful and  eightlaces.org, which is coach force consulting company, helping coaches get their dreams. To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#42.  Jim Konrad had a unique path into education. While in medical school, he was coaching a youth team and fell in love with the idea of teaching and coaching for a career, so he left medical school after his second year to pursue a career in education. In 1997, Jim was hired by his alma mater,  Naperville North HS (IL), and became the head soccer coach in 2003. NN soccer program accomplishments during his 18 years as HC:Myro Rys Sportsmanship Award Winner3 State Championships (including a 45 game winning streak)4 Final 4 appearances7 Final 8 appearances16 Dupage Valley Conference ChampionshipsUSC National Coach of the Year (2018)NFHS National Coach of the Year (2019)His program is based upon the idea of "Nothing Without Work" (Sine Labore Nihil), and clearly, Coach Konrad's dedication to his team off the field is yielding the result on the field.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#41. This episode features Southern Illinois University Head Basketball Coach, Bryan Mullins, where he gives his thoughts on:Finding balance between personal/professional lifeLearning from Coach Moser & Loyola's magical Final Four NIL, transfer portal, and recruiting today's athlete Building a programWho is the best hooper from Chicago?To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#40. This episode features Hall of Fame coach, Mr. John Belskis, who has amassed over 200 wins in his career, including 2 trips to the state championship game, winning 1 title and 1 runner-up in the largest classification of Illinois schools. TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:Coach at public vs. private schools (00:01:23)Challenges of being a HC today (00:09:29)Getting to a championship level (00:17:26)Changing culture (00:20:51)Lesson learned from Michael Jordan (00:30:09)To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#39.  Michael DiMatteo has been a teacher and coach for 35 years, coaching football for 33 with 15 of those years as head coach for four different high schools. He is a 2022 inductee into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame and a Golden Apple Teacher of Distinction (2010).Coach DiMatteo has also written two books: Confessions of a High School Football Coach as well as a historical fiction novel set in 14th century Greece and North Africa entitled Flavius Fettotempi - a family saga. To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#38. Today we have a special show - one that will hopefully have you will walk away feeling more positive and motivated to finding your best version. This episode features Rob Cressy who is a coach, speaker, and entrepreneur. More than anything Rob is a positive force for good, which is glaringly evident throughout this recording as we discuss many topics, such as mental toughness, seeking out discomfort, living a life by design, and why we need our process to be easy, simple, funResources from This Episode:Rob's website Extreme Ownership by Jocko WillinkThe Obstacle is the Way by Ryan HolidayThe 5am Club by Robin SharmaTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#37. Today's episode features Tim Trendel, Assistant Principal at Saint Patrick High School (Chicago, IL). Tim and I were classmates at St. Pat's, and this is a conversation that was actually recorded months ago when Tim was just beginning his new role as AP, and before I decided to join him at our alma mater. Tim has over 20 years of experience in education, serving as a teacher, baseball, and basketball coach, which includes 11 years as a Head Boys Basketball Coach. In this abbreviated episode, we discuss why Tim entered the profession, his decision to transition into school administration, the struggles of today's classroom teacher, why they need to prioritize personal connections with students and how this ultimately ties into the larger vision of education.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#36. Since 1988, Mark Bliss has coached football at various high school and collegiate levels. During his head coaching career, he has amassed an overall record of 206- 80 losses, won 4 State Championships, along with 2 Semi-final appearances and 2 Quarterfinal appearances. His teams have qualified for the State Playoffs 23 of his 26 years as a head coach. Mark spent seven years at Conway Springs, Kansas where his teams started a 62 game win streak which is the 22nd best win streak in high school football history. Mark's teams during his career have received national recognition in Sports Illustrated, ESPN Magazine, and Bigger Faster Stronger Magazine. He has coached 3 Top 100 Nationally Ranked teams.  Mark has received the National Federation of State High School Associations Section 5 Coach of the Year and was a National Coach of the Year Finalist. Mark has coached 26 Division I athletes, 8 High School All-Americans,1 ESPN top 300 Player, and 2 NFL Players. Mark is a three time Hall of Fame inductee 2011 Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame, 2012 National Single Wing Coaches Hall of Fame, 2017 University of Tulsa Athletic's Hall of Fame.Book Recommendation from Coach Blisss:Let Them LeadWin in the DarkGreatness: The 16 Characteristics of True ChampionsSeven Men: And the Secret of their GreatnessTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#35. This will be Jay Saravis's 28th year in education. Currently the head football coach at Cheyenne Mountain High School (CO), Jay has also coached Junior High Lacrosse, HS Softball, HS Track & Field. He is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#34. We are showcasing the football program at St. Charles North High School located in St. Charles, Illinois. Representing the North Stars are the head coach, Robert Pomazak, and assistant coach, Patrick Shannon, who is also the author of Football Tactical Training: Gain and Keep the Advantage. In this episode we discuss the culture of St. Charles North football program, what tactical training is and why coaches should implement it into their programs, and how it ultimately benefits kids. Resources:Robert Pomazak contact info/bioPatrick Shannon contact info/bioFootball Tactical Training: Gain and Keep the Advantage by Patrick ShannonTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#33.  Currently the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach and Head Football Coach  at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy in Northeast Ohio, Nick Cook has experience as a teacher, coach, and school principal.  As a football coach he has been a head coach at three high schools, including starting a high school program from scratch.  As a strength & conditioning coach, he has spent time developing and implementing training programs in private training facilities, at the high school level, and at all three levels of the NCAA.While earning a bachelor's degree in exercise science, Cook won three NCAA Division III National Championships as a member of the Mount Union football team. Cook went on to win a fourth National Championship as part of the strength & conditioning staff with the Ohio State University football team (2002) and to serve as the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach with Ohio Dominican University football, before embarking on a career in K-12 education. Coach Cook is a member of the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association, the National High School Strength Coaches Association, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.Resources from this episode:Nick Cook Contact Info4 Reasons Every H.S. Principal and AD Should Invest in a School S&C ProgramArticles on anxiety crisis among current teens:https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-most-anxious-generation-goes-to-work-11557418951?mod=hp_lead_pos5https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2021-06-11/big-rise-in-suicide-attempts-by-us-teen-girls-during-pandemicArticles on anti-anxiety effects of resistance (strength) training:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090891/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27277894/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763419305640?via%3Dihubhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/minding-the-body/201703/how-strength-training-helps-keep-anxiety-bayArticles on academic performance effects of resistance training:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20051088/https://www.jpeds.com/article/S0022-3476(09)00573-3/fulltextArticles on motivational effects of goal setting & informational feedback w/students:http://individual.utoronto.ca/jacobhirsh/publications/GoalSettingJAP2010.pdfhttp://www.columbia.edu/~mvp19/ETF/Feedback.pdfTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twi

#32.  Today's guest, John Nee, has been a teacher and coach at his alma mater St.Rita High School on the south side of Chicago for the past 25 years. In addition to his classroom responsibilities as an English teacher, Coach Nee is head coach of the baseball team and an assistant varsity football coach. He's passionate about impacting kids and today's going to discuss his influences, how he has grown as an educator, what he does to develop his players off the field and why having our players' best interests in mind makes for the best decision making coach.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#31. Welcome to our first father-son duo, Tom and Steve Winiecki! For 39 years, Tom Winiecki taught, coached, and was part of the leadership at Gordon Tech High School (Chicago, IL).  During his 31 years as Head Football Coach, his teams won 193 games, 10 state playoff appearances, 2 semi-finals, and a 6A state championship in 1980.  Also during that time the Rams qualified for the Chicago Catholic League playoffs 12 times with 3 appearances in the Chicago Prep Bowl Classic, which Gordon won in 1982 and 1987.   During his tenure as head coach Tom has earned the following honors: Chicago Catholic League Coach of the Year in 1974 and 1980, National Football Foundation Award for outstanding contributions to amateur football in 1983, Notre Dame Frank Leahy Prep Coach Award 1995, Chicago Catholic League Man of the Year 1996 and 2002, member of the Leo High School, Chicago Catholic League, and IHSFCA halls of fame.  Along with being head coach at Gordon he served as athletic director for 32 years, was president of the Chicago Catholic League for 13 years, and a member of the IHSA Legislative Board for 9 years.  Since 2002 “Papa Winiecki” changed his colors to red and has been a fixture in the Deerfield Football Program.Steve Winiecki has coached over 32 years in Illinois high schools.  He has coached at Oak Park-River Forest, Gordon Tech and Deerfield for a total of 9 years before becoming Head Coach at Deerfield HS (Deerfield, IL) where he has been for the last 23 years.  During this time at Deerfield, his teams have won 135 games, 5 conference championships, have made the IHSA Playoffs 13 times, including quarterfinal and semifinal appearances.  This spring he will be inducted into IHSFCA Hall of Fame, joining his father Tom, and he becomes the 8th coach from his father's coaching tree to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.  He was recognized as an IHSA/Country Financial Teacher in 2021. He currently teaches Physics, AP Physics, and Astronomy along with serving on the District 113 Education Association for over 20 years.To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#30.  As if being a first-time head coach wasn't tough enough, Brennan Spain was named Head Football Coach at Cardinal Ritter College Prep (St. Louis, MO) in the midst of a global pandemic. How has Coach Spain's teams responded? With back-to-back trips to the MO State Semifinals. This year, the Lions have their sights set on winning a state championship. In this episode, Coach Spain discusses:What makes Cardinal Ritter College Prep successfulThe recruiting processThe importance of honesty between coaches & playersBalancing athletic talents with academicsResources:Coach Spain on TwitterCardinal Ritter College Prep FootballTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#29.  In this unique episode, we're talking about what transformational coaching looks like from the vantage point of the media. Welcome to our two guests, Jon Kerr, publisher of the Kerr report, a newsletter about athletics and education, and Joe Aguilar, Shaw Media copy editor/page designer and ABC7-TV & Ultimate Autographs on-camera contributor. Hosts of their own podcast, The Jon and Joe Show, Kerr & Aguilar have over 30 years experience covering professional, collegiate, and high school sports.In this episode, we discuss:The unique vantage point of the sideline reporterCharacter traits of the great coachesThe power/importance of telling someone's storyWhat makes HS sports so specialResources from this episode:The Jon and Joe Show - PodcastThe Kerr ReportThe Boys in Brown by Jon KerrTo sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)

#28. Currently an  AP Human Geography and Human Geography at Lake Zurich High School in Lake Zurich, IL, Kelly Henkel has 15 years of public-school education and coaching experience.  He places an emphasis on building relationships with students and the community in order to recruit/retain students athletically and in the classroom.  Kelly believes that the role of a teacher and coach should be to help students and athletes become the best versions of themselves in the future, which is done by creating an inclusive environment in classrooms and on teams, while teaching the value and importance of being a great teammate. In this episode, we discuss:Building rapport with students and athletesUnderstanding what culture looks likeVulnerability as a leaderUnique approach to coaching youth sportsMeeting students where they are atResources from this episode:Kelly Henkel on Instagram Kelly Henkel on TwitterLake Zurich High School (Lake Zurich, IL)To sign up for weekly notes from each episode, CLICK HERE.Review The "I" in Win on Apple Podcast or my website to let me know what you think of the show.  Follow me on Twitter (@LukeMertens)