WIN ALL DAY EVERY DAY

What if the biggest obstacle to growth isn't failure, but the instinct to protect yourself from it?Chantal Vallée is the head coach of the University of Windsor women's basketball program, a five-time national champion, and the author of Dare to Win. Yet some of the most interesting moments in this conversation have little to do with winning. They come from the times she got it wrong, the lessons she almost missed, and the questions she continues to wrestle with after decades of coaching.As Justin and Shane quickly discover, Chantal has little interest in presenting herself as someone who has all the answers. The conversation moves easily between stories, reflection, and the realities of leading others when the outcome is uncertain. At several points, she challenges assumptions that many coaches, leaders, and parents rarely stop to question.This episode is an invitation to consider a simple but uncomfortable idea: growth often begins where certainty ends.

In Part Two, JP Nerbun returns to The Culture Captain and the question sitting underneath so much of the book: what happens when achievement keeps asking for more than it gives back?JP talks about the mountain of achievement, why some athletes lose joy in the pursuit, and how success can feel empty when it becomes disconnected from purpose. He also reflects on the role parents and coaches play when sport starts to become too tightly wrapped around identity.This episode offers a thoughtful look at leadership that begins with self-awareness, then moves toward the people around us.

J.P. Nerbun returns to Grit and Growth to discuss his new book, The Culture Captain, a guide for young athletes built around a simple idea: leadership starts long before anyone gives you a title.In Part One, JP explains the framework at the heart of the book and why knowing yourself comes before leading others. He reflects on identity and the pursuit of fulfillment, exploring the questions that help athletes understand what truly drives them. Along the way, he shares personal stories from his own athletic career, explains why he dedicated the book to his daughter, and discusses why some of the most important leadership work happens away from the spotlight.Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at the foundation that supports both performance and character.

In part two of our conversation with Olympic coach Rob Fegg, the focus turns to how coaches adapt to the athlete in front of them. Rob reflects on the ego work required to lead today's athletes well, the limits of authority-based coaching, and why real toughness is built by preparing athletes for imperfect days rather than simply demanding more in the moment.

Rob Fegg has coached luge athletes through five Olympic Games, including stops with Canada, South Korea, and the United States. In part one of our conversation, Rob looks back at how his own difficult exit as an athlete shaped the way he first approached coaching.The conversation moves through the pressure of Olympic timelines, the buy-in he found in South Korea, and the coaching shift that came after. Rob explains why demanding more from athletes only works when trust has already been built.As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that some of the biggest lessons Rob learned over the years had less to do with performance itself, and more to do with understanding the people he was coaching before trying to push them further.

In part two of our conversation with Aaron Wilbur, the discussion turns toward the small moments that shape players over time. Aaron reflects on what young athletes actually carry with them years later, and why so much of it comes from everyday interactions with coaches.Our conversation explores the tension between development and winning. Aaron also discusses how if coaches want certain values to stick, they have to define them clearly and reinforce them intentionally.This episode is really about influence. The kind that changes how athletes see themselves long after they leave the rink.

Aaron Wilbur is the founder of The Coaches Site, a coach development platform with more than 40,000 members worldwide, and host of the Glass and Out podcast. In part one of our discussion, Aaron reflects on what he's learned after years of studying some of the top hockey leaders in the world. What seems to matter most to him now has less to do with systems and far more to do with people.Our conversation with Aaron explores why parts of Europe are producing players more efficiently and why youth sports have become increasingly transactional. We have a sharp discussion around the pressure of chasing results too early, and how parents and coaches can unintentionally reinforce it.This episode pushes past the usual sports conversation. It asks what young athletes are actually learning from the adults leading them.

Episode 100 brings together some of the most impactful moments from our first 99 conversations.Drawn from nearly one hundred hours with esteemed coaches, pro athletes, and respected leaders, this is a curated collection of pivotal excerpts. Real moments pulled directly from past conversations.They've shaped how we think about leadership, how we define success and failure, and what it really means to lead with honesty, humility, service, and faith, regardless of sport or background.If there's one episode you don't skip, this is it!

In Part Two, clinical psychologist Dr. Jody Carrington shifts the conversation toward what actually helps in the moments that matter most. She explores the power of acknowledgement and why emotional regulation is something we practice, not perfect. This episode lands on a simple idea that carries weight — learning to “go in” by settling yourself first, then “go out” by showing up for others in a way they can actually feel.You will notice Dr. Jody Carrington's language is direct and occasionally colourful, which is very much part of how she shows up.

In this Applied episode, Carmen Busse from Carzan Meats breaks down what actually works when it comes to fueling athletes around competition, drawing on her experience building products like beef jerky and snack sticks made with simple ingredients. This one is built for athletes, coaches and parents who are navigating busy schedules and need options that hold up when it matters. This brief Applied episode gives you real options you can use right away.

In Part One, clinical psychologist Dr. Jody Carrington brings her trademark honesty to a conversation about regulation, leadership, and why kids and athletes cannot settle if the adults around them are not settled first. She reflects on what it means to “walk people home” in moments of distress and why it all starts with the big people. This episode explores how connection shapes resilience in a world that keeps pulling us away from each other. You will notice Dr. Carrington's language is direct and occasionally colourful, which is very much part of how she shows up.

In Part Two with Canadian Olympic basketball stars Katherine and Michelle Plouffe, the conversation moves beyond results and into what was actually happening underneath it all. They talk about the pressure they put on themselves, how much of their identity was tied to performance, and what that started to cost them over time. Along the way, they share how that same perspective carried into building Canada's 3x3 program from the ground up.What started to shift was how they saw themselves within it all, and why that matters for anyone who feels the weight of chasing something.

Canadian Olympic basketball stars Katherine and Michelle Plouffe built their path to elite competition through a level of intensity that started at home and never let up. The sisters share how that mindset was shaped early—through family dynamics, strong coaching, and a drive to improve that kept raising the bar, with moments of humor that still show up between them.They reflect on choosing separate college paths, learning who they were beyond “the twins,” and navigating identity, pressure, and purpose along the way. Our guests open up through years of self-reflection, offering a vulnerable look inside the experiences that shaped them into world-class athletes.

In a first for the show, we bring on a guest's client, as performance specialist Drew DeBiasse is joined by baseball pitcher Joshua Carvalho to walk through their work together. What follows is a clear transformation—greater velocity, more consistent composure when things break down, and a noticeable shift in how Joshua leads and responds to his teammates. This episode brings Drew's performance framework into focus, showing how raising the floor creates stability under pressure and unlocks a more reliable version of performance.

Drew DeBiasse joins us to expose what's really happening beneath athlete performance—where mental blocks, injuries, and nervous system overload quietly build until something breaks. In Part One, she breaks down the warning signs and explains how regulation, not just skill, determines whether athletes rise or unravel under pressure. This episode sets the stage for Part Two, where her approach is explored through a conversation with an athlete she's working with, showing how performance can be rebuilt from the inside out.

In Part Two of our conversation with Saskatchewan Roughriders running back and two-time Grey Cup champion AJ Ouellette, the focus shifts from his career to the lessons he's passing on to the next generation. AJ shares the philosophy behind No Name Athletics, the training gym he founded to help young athletes build strength and confidence before the spotlight arrives. He also opens up about facing fear, developing the right mindset, and how faith has begun to reshape the way he approaches both football and life.

Two-time Grey Cup champion and Saskatchewan Roughriders running back AJ Ouellette joins Grit and Growth to share the mindset behind his journey through injury, roster cuts, and the grind of professional football. In Part One, he reflects on going from college walk-on to pro starter, explains why young athletes need patience more than attention, and describes the quiet confidence that comes from preparation.

In Part Two with Coach Ben Herring, we move from theory to application and explore what it actually takes to build culture that lasts. Ben explains why belonging drives performance and what it means to coach without resentment. Through stories from Japan and reflections on the culture of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team, he shows how connection creates buy-in and allows hard conversations to land. If you care about leadership that shapes people, not just results, this one goes deep.

In Part One with Ben Herring, former professional rugby player, international coach, author and podcast host, we explore where culture really starts.We talk about curiosity as a culture additive and the power of simple daily greetings. Ben challenges coaches to shift focus from X's and O's to connection, arguing that how you teach matters more than what you teach.If you're wondering where to begin with culture, this is a clear and practical starting point.

In Part Two, Matt Thomann shifts from defining “mettle” to building it. He argues that hope and gratitude form real toughness under pressure, then leaves you with a question: Are you building for the next win, or for the long haul?

In Part One, Matt Thomann introduces “mettle” as a healthier definition of toughness shaped by lived experience. Matt reflects on how a cancer diagnosis and a subsequent stroke forced him to reconsider what strength really looks like. This conversation explores how growth becomes sustainable when vulnerability replaces bravado and when faith moves from something you say to something you trust.

In Part Two, Connor Emeny moves beyond the decision to chase seven Ironman races and into the lived reality of what that commitment demands. Connor reflects on the moments that tested his resolve and the internal negotiations that surface when motivation fades. This conversation explores what it takes to stay aligned with a long-term pursuit when certainty disappears and commitment has to carry the weight.

In Part One, Connor Emeny joins us to share how his decision to pursue an Ironman triathlon evolved into an extraordinary goal: completing one on all seven continents. Connor reflects on why setting a goal this demanding matters, and what the physical and mental toll reveals about discipline, identity, and long-term commitment. This episode explores the value of choosing a path that is intentionally hard — not for the finish line, but for who you're forced to become along the way.

Former CFL lineman Angus Reid returns to unpack his new book Teenager and what he's learning from coaching, parenting, and working with teens every day. The conversation centers on shifting away from external results toward one internal question. It's a grounded listen for parents, coaches, and anyone trying to guide teenagers without adding more noise.

In part two of the conversation, Rod Pedersen reflects on leadership from the inside out — what it looks like when trust is real and standards are actually lived. Drawing from his time around the CFL, NHL, WHL, and youth sport, Rod challenges listeners to stop chasing outcomes and start owning the culture they create.

Hall of Fame broadcaster Rod Pedersen joins Grit and Growth for a raw and meaningful conversation about leadership, resilience, and purpose.Drawing from decades around elite athletes and coaches, Rod shares the defining trait he's seen in the best leaders: they don't quit. He also opens up about his personal journey through addiction, sobriety, and recovery, and how those experiences reshaped his definition of success.This episode is about grit, growth, and being there for others—especially young athletes navigating pressure, identity, and mental health.

Our most-listened-to episode of 2025 is back!We're replaying our conversation with Brook Cupps on authentic leadership, building clear personal pillars, and leading with values that actually last.If you missed it the first time, this one's worth your time.

In this holiday special, Justin and Shane bring in their friend Stephen Clement for a special holiday episode built around one wild story: 44-year-old NFL Quarterback Philip Rivers getting the call to suit up again after five years away. They dig into what it reveals about courage, identity, leadership under pressure, and why “show up and serve” isn't just a slogan—it's a decision.

In Part Two, John Olinger unpacks how in 2020 (Kobe's passing, uncertainty at Nike, and the sudden loss of his dad) forced a hard reset on what “winning” really means. John shares Kobe's surprising formula for greatness, the difference between accomplishments and relationships, and why your most valuable resource isn't just time—it's time, energy, and attention. He also introduces his new role leading UNITUS and the mission behind the brand.

Justin and Shane sit down with former pro hooper and Nike executive John Olinger for Part One, where they dig into grit, identity, and how to know which things are truly worth chasing. John shares how being the 15th man, injury, and a tiny English pro league shaped his faith, resilience and people-over-projects leadership. If you are chasing a roster spot, a promotion or a clearer sense of purpose, this one will push you to keep pounding the stone.

Our hosts sit down for a special episode to share the heart behind their new book, Significance Over Success. They talk openly about how two years of conversations with coaches, athletes, and leaders reshaped their own definition of growth — and why impact, integrity, and inner work matter more than any scoreboard. A behind-the-scenes look at what inspired the project.

Part two with Brian Smith goes deeper into the real heart of parenting and coaching in youth sports. He explores how asking permission, speaking identity, and reducing pressure can reshape the way our kids experience their sport — including the correlation between rising costs and declining enjoyment.

Brian Smith—Division I runner turned coach, chaplain, and author of The Christian Athlete—joins Grit and Growth to explore how athletes rediscover joy in sport. In Part One, he digs into why so many young players feel pressure instead of freedom, and how identity, faith, and “front-end grace” can change the way we coach and parent. A practical, hope-filled listen for athletes, coaches, and families.

World-record adventurer and leadership expert Jason Caldwell returns for Part Two of an unforgettable conversation. He dives into rebuilding after failure, choosing the right people over the best ones, and how fatherhood reshaped his view of purpose, courage, and leadership. A powerful close to this two-part story about growth, responsibility, and the heart of adventure.

World-record adventurer and leadership expert Jason Caldwell joins Grit and Growth to unpack what it really means to fail, lead, and belong. From losing Olympic dreams to crossing oceans, he shares raw lessons on ego, humility, and what it takes to be the kind of teammate who makes the boat move faster. This is Part One of an unforgettable conversation about purpose, fear, and finding strength in vulnerability.

In Part Two, Geoff Glasspell expands on purpose-driven coaching—how competition builds character, why significance matters more than success, and how trust and integrity shape lasting impact. This episode is a reminder that the best coaching creates transformation—not just wins.

In Part One with Geoff Glasspell—coach, educator, and founder of Masterpiece Basketball—we unpack “purpose-driven coaching”: commitment + integrity → excellence, and why he chases significance over success. Geoff shares his “look-in-the-mirror” pivot, how a simple word-of-the-day shapes practices, and the leadership habits that help kids thrive on and off the court.

In Part Two with Jamie Gilbert, a penalty shootout and a locker room in heartbreak become lessons in courage, trust, and growth.Don't miss this conversation as he unpacks his “compete, don't compare” philosophy and how situation crafting helps young athletes truly learn and lead.

In Part One of Two, Jamie Gilbert—coach, educator, and Burn Your Goals co-author—explores what it really means to compete without comparison and how true greatness begins with service. Join us for a grounded, heart-first conversation about purpose, growth, and becoming who you're meant to be.

“From a farm in Saskatchewan to the CHL spotlight, new Head Coach of the WHL Calgary Hitmen, Dustin Friesen has built his journey on hard work and consistency. He opens up about culture, standards, and developing players who value the team over the stat line. Honest, practical, and relentlessly focused, Dustin shares what drives him to coach every day.”

In Part Two, Mano Watsa goes deeper into the principles that make coaching truly transformational. He reveals how PGC empowers athletes by meeting them where they are, raising their own standards, and moving beyond fear-based tactics to a culture of encouragement and growth. This conversation will inspire you to rethink how you coach, parent, or lead—and remind you that real change begins with choice..

In Part One of our conversation with Mano Watsa, President and Owner of Point Guard College, he shares powerful wisdom on leadership, humility, and the power of choosing who you want to become. From launching backyard camps at 15 to now reaching more than 20,000 athletes each year, Mano's journey shows how vision and character can shape lives. You'll come away energized with a fresh perspective on sport, coaching, and life itself.

Jordan Bokser is back, and in Part Two he pulls back the curtain on the supplement world. He digs into hidden industry tricks like “pixie dusting” and proprietary blends, and explains how the right formulations can actually move the needle. From young athletes chasing their dreams to pros at the top of their game, Bokser shows why quality, dosage, and especially sleep can change everything.

In Part One with Jordan Bokser, he opens up about his path from wannabe pro fighter to building brands in holistic health. Also why fear, abandonment, and resilience all play into the pursuit of wellness. If you've ever wondered how physical and emotional health collide, this one will push you to rethink what “healthy” really means.

In Part Two of our conversation with Jill Lane, we get practical. From fueling student athletes to helping pros extend their careers, Jill shares real stories and simple foundations anyone can apply. We also dig into the overlooked challenges of female athletes and why modeling good habits matters for every parent and coach.

What does it really take to fuel greatness? In Part One of our conversation with Jill Lane, performance nutritionist to Super Bowl, NBA, and World Series teams, we explore how nutrition impacts not just performance, but health, identity, and longevity. Jill opens up about her own journey from Division I soccer star to elite advisor, and why “championing people” matters as much as fueling athletes. This is a powerful start to a two-part series you won't want to miss.

In Part Two, Jason Romano shares what led him to leave his dream job at ESPN for a calling he couldn't ignore. He talks about the faith journey that reshaped his identity, the conversation with Coach Tony Dungy that stopped him in his tracks, and why “bloom where you're planted” became a personal mission. Jason also opens up about his first book, Live to Forgive, and what it really means to forgive someone who's hurt you deeply. This episode is a powerful reflection on identity, leadership, and the kind of freedom that only comes through forgiveness.

Jason Romano spent 17 years at ESPN, producing for SportsCenter, NFL Countdown, and College GameDay. In Part One, he shares what it was really like behind the scenes—walking the halls with legends, geeking out with Darryl Strawberry, and spending a surreal day escorting Will Ferrell through the studios. He also opens up about the identity struggle that came with the job and how a question directly from Coach Tony Dungy started to change everything. This is a fun, thoughtful, and deeply human episode you won't want to miss.

In Part Two of our conversation with NCAA powerhouse coach Jackie Crum, we get into the heart of what really matters in a winning program. Jackie shares how she builds trust with every player on the roster—from stars to fourth-liners—and why touch points, mentorship, and love are her most powerful tools. She gets candid about juggling motherhood, faith, and coaching at the highest level, all while raising future leaders on and off the ice. If you care about leadership, character, or the long game of development—this one's for you.

University of Wisconsin assistant hockey coach Jackie Crum shares her journey from Regina to NCAA and what sets top recruits apart. She dives into character, culture, and how student-athletes can thrive on and off the ice. Players, coaches, and parents - this episode is packed with insight. Tune in and get inspired in part one of two with Jackie Crum!

In part two with Casey Bruggeman, he gets real about servant leadership, relationships that outlast the scoreboard, and the quiet challenge of doing things the right way. From humbling career shifts to coaching labs in disguise, Casey unpacks how culture is built through consistency, presence, and deep investment. As Jamestown transitions to NCAA Division II, Casey reflects on why high standards and meaningful relationships are the path to true transformation.If you care about coaching that lasts beyond the final buzzer—this is a must-listen.