Coach 360: A Podcast For High School Coaches

What does it take to lead through transition without losing the heart of your mission? In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, we welcome back Coach Jonathan Lamb—now Athletic Director at Pflugerville ISD—for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, character development, and embracing growth through change. Having spent nearly two decades in Leander ISD, Coach Lamb shares his journey from a place of comfort to one of challenge and new opportunity. Whether you're a coach considering a professional transition or an athletic leader looking to grow your impact, this episode is full of timely insights. Tune in as Coach Lamb unpacks the mindset shifts, leadership practices, and people-first philosophy that are driving change in Pflugerville athletics.   Key Takeaways Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Growth often comes when we choose to pursue new challenges instead of staying where we feel secure. Prepare Daily for Future Roles: Don’t wait for a promotion to begin leading—build your leadership habits now. R

In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, presented by 2Words Character Development, we’re joined by Coach Todd Winfrey, Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach at Canyon High School in Texas. With over two decades of experience serving under Coach Blake Bryant before stepping into the head role, Coach Winfrey shares a powerful testimony of leadership, patience, and the impact of long-term investment in a single community. Coach Winfrey opens up about the influence of his coaching mentors, the importance of building relationships, and how love—not just discipline—is at the heart of his coaching philosophy. This episode dives deep into what it means to lead with intention, build a player-led team, and prioritize family while navigating a coaching career. Whether you're an aspiring head coach or a seasoned veteran, Coach Winfrey’s story is a valuable reminder that how we lead matters just as much as where we lead.   Key Takeaways Lead with Love: Coach Winfrey emphasizes the importance of telling play

What happens when tradition meets transformation? For Coach Kelli Barnett, it meant stepping into a brand-new role at Wichita Falls Memorial High School—formed from the consolidation of three legacy campuses—and turning a blank slate into a platform for something extraordinary. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Barnett shares how she laid the groundwork for a culture of character, trust, and resilience among her volleyball athletes. By anchoring her program in character development and a shared mantra—“The Standard”—Coach Barnett reveals what it takes to unite athletes from different schools, build trust among teammates, and create a team-first mindset. From offseason workouts to character conversations, this episode offers a playbook for coaches looking to build more than just winning teams. It’s about building strong, confident young women who lead with heart—on and off the court.   Key Takeaways Start With Character: Coach Barnett focused on character development from day one to unify h

In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, we’re joined by Coach Daniel Fitzmorris, Athletic Coordinator at Pasadena Dobie High School and a proud alumnus of the very program he now leads. With deep roots in Dobie football and a winding journey that spans Missouri, Denmark, and across Texas, Coach Fitzmorris returns to his alma mater with a clear vision: restore discipline, build tough athletes, and develop men of character for life beyond the field. Coach Fitzmorris shares how influential mentors shaped his coaching philosophy and how he's paying it forward by empowering his own staff and student-athletes. From promoting leadership among young coaches to reviving old-school toughness through innovative offseason programs, Coach Fitzmorris offers a playbook for cultivating grit, accountability, and loyalty within a program. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just getting started, this episode delivers invaluable insight into what it means to lead with heart and conviction.   Key Takeaways Leadership Thro

What does it mean to lead with grit, heart, and humility? In this powerful episode of Coach 360: Beyond the Game, we sit down with Coach Sergio Gonzales, the Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach at Pasadena Rayburn High School. From his blue-collar roots in Galena Park, Texas, to leading student-athletes with passion and purpose, Coach Gonzales shares a raw and inspiring journey of character, leadership, and what it truly takes to make an impact. Coach Gonzales opens up about the defining moments that shaped his career—from his father’s accident that brought him back home from college, to finding mentorship in unexpected places, to building a football program based on accountability, resilience, and love. His story is a reminder that true coaching goes far beyond the field. It’s about building young men of character who are ready to face life with strength and integrity. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athletic director, this conversation is a masterclass in how to balance toughness with compassion

When a school district undergoes one of the most significant transformations in its history—shutting down three long-standing high schools to create two brand-new campuses—strong leadership becomes essential. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Grant Freeman, Athletic Director at Wichita Falls ISD, shares the pivotal role that character, relationships, and culture play in leading through change. Coach Freeman, a lifelong educator and coach, unpacks how his personal upbringing, the lessons he learned from his father, and a transformational leadership philosophy helped him guide coaches and athletes through a historic district-wide transition. Whether you're facing a program rebuild or want to cultivate a player-led culture, Coach Freeman’s experience offers a playbook on how to lead with purpose.   Key Takeaways Transformational vs. Transactional Leadership: Freeman emphasizes the importance of focusing on transformation—building people—rather than just checking off tasks. Building Culture Du

In this powerful episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, presented by 2Words Character Development, we reconnect with Coach Cody Moore, Athletic Coordinator at Round Rock High School, and his Assistant Head Football Coach and O-Line Coach, Jordan Gesch. Building upon their earlier conversation in Episode 332, this round dives deep into one of the most impactful elements of their program: the Leadership Council. What started as a way to recognize student leaders has evolved into a structured, purpose-driven initiative designed to build true servant leaders on and off the field. Coach Moore and Coach Gesch share the origins, development, and day-to-day execution of their Leadership Council—from student nominations and rigorous interviews to summer retreats, service projects, and weekly team meetings. This episode is a masterclass in building a student-led program grounded in accountability, humility, and intentional leadership. If you're a coach aiming to empower your athletes to lead with integrity, this is the

In this inspiring episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, we hear from Coach Lawrence Johnson, the Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach at Wichita Falls Legacy High School. Taking on the challenge of merging three schools into one unified program, Coach Johnson shares a raw, powerful account of what it takes to build culture, character, and unity in the face of adversity. With a new campus, a new team, and no shortage of challenges—including an 0-10 season—Coach Johnson offers a masterclass in leadership through hardship. Rather than focusing on the scoreboard, he turns his attention to the character of his athletes, teaching them to believe, compete, and serve each other through a values-driven framework he calls the ABCDs. For any coach navigating change, struggle, or a rebuild, this conversation is essential listening.   Key Takeaways from the Lawrence Johnson Interview Adversity is a classroom: Coach Johnson believes tough seasons teach the most powerful life lessons—resilience, humility, a

In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, we hear from Coach Cale Melton, Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Hico ISD, whose leadership journey is rooted in legacy, authenticity, and building a program with lasting character. From his upbringing under a coaching father to his own transition into a head coaching role, Melton shares how trust, team ownership, and consistent investment shape the heart of a successful program—on and off the field. Coach Melton dives into the power of mentorship, the importance of genuine relationships, and how foundational trust creates not just better athletes, but better people. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just getting started, this episode is full of practical wisdom on leadership, culture building, and developing character through sports.   Key Takeaways Lead with Authenticity: Coach Melton emphasizes that being genuine with players creates a foundation of trust that’s essential for long-term success. Legacy Matters: Coming from a coaching family, Melto

In the latest episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, presented by 2Words Character Development, host Colton sits down with Coach Michelle Dalton, the girls athletic coordinator at Pasadena Bondi Intermediate and a seasoned coach and mentor, to discuss the profound impact of mindset in leadership, coaching, and personal development. Through years of experience, Michelle has cultivated a deep understanding of how mental resilience shapes both individual and team success. She shares invaluable insights on how coaches can develop a winning culture, inspire young athletes, and navigate challenges with a growth-oriented perspective. With over 16 years of coaching experience, Coach Dalton shares how the dynamics of middle school sports have evolved over the years, and how she continues to impact her athletes by instilling the core values of class, commitment, and character. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or new to the field, this episode is full of insights on fostering a positive team culture and helping students

Every coach has the opportunity to make a lasting impact, and Coach Paul Sharr, Athletic Director at Community ISD, is a prime example of what it means to lead with integrity and purpose. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Sharr shares his approach to fostering leadership, instilling sportsmanship, and holding athletes accountable in a way that prepares them for success in life, not just sports. With over three decades of experience, Coach Sharr has coached at every level and understands that building a program isn’t just about championships—it’s about helping young people become their best selves. He emphasizes the power of mentorship, the importance of relational coaching, and why investing in athletes as individuals leads to long-term success. If you’re a coach, athletic director, or leader looking to create a positive and lasting influence, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways Relationships Drive Success – Coaching is about fostering strong connections with athletes, staff, and

Burnout isn’t just about feeling tired—it’s the slow erosion of passion, purpose, and energy that can take even the best coaches out of the game. If you’ve ever found yourself drained, disconnected, or questioning if you can keep going, you’re not alone. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Host Colton Leonard visits with Coach Stephen Mackey as they dive into the real causes of burnout and outline a four-step process to help coaches finish strong instead of flaming out. Whether you’re a veteran coach or just starting your journey, these principles will help you stay energized, focused, and in the game for the long haul. Key Takeaways from the Episode Burnout happens slowly and then all at once. Recognizing the early warning signs—like emotional exhaustion, detachment, and a low sense of accomplishment—can prevent total burnout. Rhythm and intention matter. Without daily habits that fuel you, it’s easy to run on empty and lose sight of why you started coaching in the first place. Reflection combats

Every coach dreams of building a winning program—but what defines winning? Is it state championships and trophy cases, or is it developing young athletes into leaders who thrive beyond the game? In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Ben Nicholas, Athletic Director at Village Tech Schools, shares his journey from unexpected coaching opportunities to leading a 3A athletic program in a highly competitive region. Coach Nicholas has spent years shifting his school’s athletic mindset from a club team culture to a championship mentality, proving that resources don’t define success—culture does. If you’re a coach leading a smaller program, a team facing adversity, or looking to reinforce character development, this episode is packed with insights on leadership, athlete identity, and building a player-led culture that lasts.   Key Takeaways Culture Is Greater Than Circumstances – Facilities and budgets don’t make champions—mindset does. Champions find a way, no matter the obstacles. Athletes Are Mor

Culture isn’t just a catchphrase on a locker room wall—it’s the foundation that defines who your team is under pressure. Every great program, from high school teams to college powerhouses, thrives on clear core values that guide athletes beyond the game. But how do you go from a list of words to a culture that actually shapes behavior? In this episode of Coach360: Beyond The Game, Coach Stephen Mackey lays out four essential steps to defining, teaching, and living out core values in a way that gets buy-in from your athletes. If you’re a coach starting a new program or looking to reset and strengthen your team’s culture, this episode gives you a proven framework to make core values come alive—not just for one season, but for years to come. Key Takeaways from the Episode Connect Core Values to Character Traits – The best values aren’t just words; they are anchored in character like grit, accountability, or humility. Define Values Through Commitments – Athletes need clear, action-based definitions so they can a

Every coach wants a player-led team, but how do you create a culture where athletes hold each other accountable, play for something bigger than themselves, and show up every day ready to compete? At Round Rock High School, Coach Cody Moore and Coach Jordan Gesh have built a football program centered around brotherhood, relentless effort, and above-the-line behavior—not just on the field, but in life. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Moore and Coach Gesh discuss their turnaround season, shifting from a 4-7 record to 8-1 by focusing on culture over results. They share how self-reflection, accountability, and redefining leadership helped reshape their team, their coaching approach, and ultimately, their success. If you’re a coach looking to build a lasting culture that goes beyond the scoreboard, this episode is packed with practical strategies and coaching leadership insights.   Key Takeaways from the Episode Self-Reflection is the First Step to Growth – Instead of blaming external factors,

Coaching today isn’t the same as it was 10, 20, or 30 years ago. The landscape of youth development has changed, and adolescence now extends well beyond high school. As adolescence expands, today’s athletes need strong coaches more than ever. In this episode, Coach 360 host, Colton Leonard, welcomes back Coach Stephen Mackey for our special series "Huddle Up With Coach Mackey."  Mackey introduces the Five E’s of Leadership—Empathy, Example, Expectation, Equipping, and Encouragement—as a game plan for maximizing impact on and off the field. If you’re looking to set high standards while still meeting young athletes where they are, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways from the Episode Adolescence is Expanding – Many young adults aren’t reaching full independence until 25, meaning coaches have an even greater responsibility to provide structure and mentorship. The Five E’s of Leadership – The best coaches lead through Empathy, Example, Expectation, Equipping, and Encouragement. Empathy Doesn’t Mean Soft – Unde

Today, Coach McDougald tells us what it takes to be a championship team and lessons she has learned throughout her coaching journey. Email Address: jmcdougald@iolaisd.net Interested in connecting or taking the next step with us? Let us know! Colton@2words.tv -‌-- Visit www.2Words.tv/gameplan to learn more and for a free week of the curriculum. PMX ProMaxima is your one stop shop for the ultimate fitness equipment solution. From strength to cardio, They manufacture a wide range of high-quality products made in the USA to maximize your teams performance. Experience the difference with PMX ProMaxima and see why thousands of athletes and schools trust them. Visit PMXstrength.com today to explore their catalog and elevate your fitness journey.

Welcome to the Coach360 podcast! Today we interview coach Jack Bowles from Hooks High School. He has been coaching for over 30 years and in the last 6 years has recently made the switch from coaching Boys Basketball to Girls Basketball. We discuss the similarities and differences and advice he would give to other coaches. -‌-- Visit www.2Words.tv/gameplan to learn more and for a free week of the curriculum. PMX ProMaxima is your one stop shop for the ultimate fitness equipment solution. From strength to cardio, They manufacture a wide range of high-quality products made in the USA to maximize your teams performance. Experience the difference with PMX ProMaxima and see why thousands of athletes and schools trust them. Visit PMXstrength.com today to explore their catalog and elevate your fitness journey.

Today we have a special guest on the podcast in the form on Beau Blackard from PMX Promaxima. Listeners will learn more about the organization and how they have set out to support coaches and school programs across the country. To learn more, visit PMXstrength.com. If you are a partner school of either Promaxima or 2Words, we want to know about it! Reach out to us and we would love to get mackey out on site to encourage your athletes. Email Colton@2words.tv -‌-- PMX ProMaxima is your one stop shop for the ultimate fitness equipment solution. From strength to cardio, They manufacture a wide range of high-quality products made in the USA to maximize your teams performance. Experience the difference with PMX ProMaxima and see why thousands of athletes and schools trust them. Visit PMXstrength.com today to explore their catalog and elevate your fitness journey.

In today's episode, Colton sits down with Coach Marcus Bronson of Tri-City Prep. Coach Bronson shares with us the importance of building relationships that lead to success for his athletes not just on the field but in their lives as well. We discuss his philosophy and passion of helping students become leaders and well-rounded adults. Connect with Coach: mbronson@tricityprep.org Learn more at www.2words.tv/gameplan PMX ProMaxima is your one stop shop for the ultimate fitness equipment solution. From strength to cardio, They manufacture a wide range of high-quality products made in the USA to maximize your teams performance. Experience the difference with PMX ProMaxima and see why thousands of athletes and schools trust them. Visit PMXstrength.com today to explore their catalog and elevate your fitness journey.