How Soccer Explains Leadership Podcast

In Episode 182, Becca Darke, Colorado College Women’s Soccer Hall of Famer, former PE Teacher, former Athletes in Action staff, mother of five, and, yes, wife of Phil, shares with Phil and Paul about her journey from hockey-centric Minnesota to her youth and collegiate soccer career, how she battled injuries, and her growing faith that led her to ministry in sports. Becca shares her experiences as the Atlanta Beat Chaplain, affirming the role of soccer in shaping character, leadership, and relationships. Becca also reflects on her personal 'why,' how Scripture continually shapes her, the importance of “making room” for others in our lives, and lessons from the game that have been applied in her marriage, parenting, and teaching roles. Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      Nations United Website ·      Lead with Prayer, Peter Greer, Ryan Skoog, Cameron Doolittle ·      Horst Richardson HSEL Episode

In Episode 181, we are giving you an annual dose of one of our favorite interviews of all time, going back to our conversation with Graham Daniels, Ph.D., Director of Cambridge United, Director of Christians in Sport, and former player for Cambridge United and Cardiff City. He talked with us about the “Pray, Play, Say” discipleship/leadership method, his personal why, his incredible testimony of how he came to his faith in Jesus Christ and how one pivotal moment changed the course of his life forever, the critical importance of a Christian identity in elite football, achieved vs. received identity, Service vs. Survival, humility, and a leader who he respects deeply. Specifically, Graham discusses: ·      His personal story, including how he grew his passion for football, coaching, ministry, and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today ·      An incredible story about how he came to his Christian faith, despite one of the “worst evangelists” of all time ·      His personal why/mission statement and how he is living it out ·      Achieved identity vs. Received identity - Identity formation and his Ph.D. thesis on the necessity of Christian identity in dealing with performance requirements of elite football ·      Three things that provide a framework for ministry in sports ·      Safe to serve, not scared and surviving ·      A defining moment in his life and how it impacted his development ·      A leader that sticks out above the rest to him (A Premier League Manager that may surprise you) ·      How he has used lessons learned from sports in his marriage and parenting ·      His recommendations Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      HSEL Facebook Group ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      Humility, by Andrew Murray ·      Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

In Episode 180, Rick McKinley, Missionary Athletes International’s (MAI) Director of Int’l Tours. Shares with Phil and Paul his extensive journey through sports, including impactful stories from his days as an athlete, coach, and missionary. He discusses his commitment to integrating faith and soccer, describing significant moments that shaped his understanding of the Gospel and relying on God's strength. Key highlights include Rick’s impactful moments on mission trips, the importance of aligning personal identity with God rather than performance, and his efforts in training coaches globally to incorporate gospel-centered principles in their coaching methods. The episode also delves deep into personal stories, mentoring impacts, and recommended resources that have influenced Rick’s approach to leadership and faith. If you’re wanting to learn more about integrating sports and ministry, you definitely want to listen to this one. Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      The Christian Athlete, Brian Smith ·      Lead with Prayer, Peter Greer, Ryan Skoog, Cameron Doolittle ·      A Hunger for God, John Piper ·      The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness, Tim Keller ·      The Mark of the Christian, Francis Schaffer ·      Horst Richardson HSEL Episode ·      Dave Irby HSEL Episode

In Episode 179, Phil and Paul engage in an eclectic and wide-ranging conversation with Greg Rubendall, who has recently started a new venture in Sacramento, ASC Midtown, and a new podcast, “The Road Warrior.” The episode covers topics from personal updates to more philosophical discussions touching on biomechanics, conservation genetics, classical literature, leadership, and the power of unstructured play. Greg shares his insights on the importance of continual learning, community development, and creating environments where everyone can flourish. This engaging dialogue also explores the impact of technology in sports and the unique developmental methods observed in European soccer academies. You definitely don’t want to miss this one. Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      Candide, Voltaire ·      Start with Why, Simon Sinek ·      “Start with Why” TED Talk

In Episode 178, Phil and Paul reconnect to kick off Season 13, reflecting on their eventful summer and discussing key leadership lessons they learned along the way. They share personal stories and a new role for Paul in the soccer world. They delve into important lessons such as the importance of being still, focusing on prayer, understanding the evolving roles as parents, and embracing an open-handed approach to life. They emphasize the concept of being in charge without needing to be in control and the critical need for focus and needing to say no to good things for the great things. Join them as they set the stage for another impactful season filled with insightful conversations. Resources and Links from this Episode ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training  

In Episode 177, we are recasting our episode with Becky Burleigh, Co-Founder of What Drives Winning, former University of Florida Women’s Soccer Coach (for 27 years), and Methodist College Hall of Famer, who talked with Phil and Paul about the life and leadership lessons she learned over the course of her playing career and her extensive coaching career at University of Florida and Berry College, the story behind What Drives Winning, some great WDW principles, her personal why, a defining moment in her career, and making the most of every opportunity. Specifically, Becky discusses: ·      Her personal story, including how she grew her passion for soccer, coaching, and leadership, and how she got to where she is today with What Drives Winning ·      Her personal why/mission statement and how she is living it out ·      What Drives Winning’s mission and what she hopes people will get out of the great materials WDW produces ·      Two key questions that she asks herself every year and why we should do the same ·      Why she uses DISC model of human behavior in her work and why she believes all coaches should use it with their teams ·      The concept of weak voice vs. strong voice and what we can do about it ·      “Struggle really a biological requirement for greatness” – Really? ·      Her defining moment and how it impacted her development ·      What advice she would like to give her 25-year-old self ·      The importance of finding a “thinking partner” ·      The good, bad, and ugly of US Soccer ·      How she has used lessons learned from the game in her relationships outside the game ·      Her recommendations Resources and Links from this Episode ·      What Drives Winning Website ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      HSEL Facebook Group ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      The Talent Code: Greatness isn’t born. It’s Grown. Here’s How, by Daniel Coyle ·      The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Teams, by Daniel Coyle ·      What Drives Winning: Teams, by Becky Burleigh and Brett Ledbetter ·      “Welcome to Wrexham” (Hulu) ·      “Ted Lasso” (Apple TV+} ·      “38 in the Garden” (HBO Max)

In Episode 176, we are recasting our recruiting episode with our very own Paul Jobson, who now is Director of Atletico Dallas Youth-Central Texas after his retirement from coaching at Baylor Futbol, when he talked with Phil about how players, parents, and coaches can navigate the recruiting process with more excellence. Specifically, he covers: ·      How the recruiting process should be a fun “get-to” ·      The parallels of the college recruiting process and job searches ·      The coach’s and assistant coach’s perspective of the recruiting process ·      How coaches filter through the thousands of emails they get throughout the year, and how to separate yourself from the multitudes ·      Confirmation bias in coaches, how it affects the recruiting process, and what you can do to ensure you’re on the right side of the bias ·      The importance of treating every coach with respect and never burning any bridges during the recruiting process ·      What should you do if a school you’re not interested in is recruiting you? ·      How can you know if a coach is interested in you vs. just trying to get you to go to a camp? ·      Are camps worth the time and expense? ·      A reminder that the recruiting process should be a highlight of your life Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Don Williams HSEL Episode ·      Video of the Episode ·      HSEL YouTube Channel ·      HSEL Facebook Group ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Providence World website ·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      Open: An Autobiography, by Andre Agassi

In Episode 175, we are recasting our conversation with Keith Tozer, Commissioner of the Major Arena Soccer League, Coach of the US Futsal National Team, MISL coach and player in five decades, the first-ever pick in the MISL Draft, and a Hall of Famer in multiple hall of fames, who talked with Paul and Phil about what he has learned over the course of his five-decade long career playing and coaching indoor and outdoor soccer and futsal, why all teams should use futsal/indoor soccer as part of their player development, the power of the Geese “V” formation, leading up, his personal why, mentorship, how he has used lessons from soccer in his role as MASL Commissioner. Specifically, Keith discusses: ·      His personal story, including how he grew his passion for soccer, particularly indoor and futsal, coaching, and leadership, and how he got to be Commissioner of the MASL – and we inadvertently talked about answers to some possible trivia questions as well (3:58) ·      Why he believes that futsal and indoor are critical to training and should be an integral part of development at all levels (8:46) ·      His personal why/mission statement and how he is living it out (16:06) ·      The power of the Geese “V” formation and what leadership lessons we can learn from it (18:17) ·      His defining moment and how it impacted his development (22:46) ·      How he navigated the transition to coaching from playing, and his stint as a player/manager, and the leadership lessons he learned on his journey (25:45) ·      How he intentionally sought out mentors as a young leader and what he learned from his mentors (32:00) ·      The power of leading up (35:31) ·      A couple of the best leaders he played or coached with, and what set them apart from the rest (37:10) ·      What he would tell the 27-year-old Keith Tozer if he could go back in time (41:25) ·      A great story about empowering, servant leadership (43:26) ·      How he is using lessons learned from the game of soccer in his role as Commissioner of the MASL (48:07) ·      The good, bad, and ugly of US Soccer, how the MASL is helping to move the game forward in the US (49:30) ·      How he has used lessons learned from the game in his marriage and parenting (59:57) ·      Her recommendations (1:01:06) Resources and Links from this Episode ·      MASL Website ·      US Youth Futsal Website ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      HSEL Facebook Group ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      The Winner Within: A Life Plan for Team Players, by Pat Riley

In Episode 174, we are recasting our interview with Andrew Simpson, Mindset Coach, Author of Athlete! I’m Talking to You: 7 Mindset Hacks to Dominate in Sports and Life and The Youth Truth: Coaching & Parenting in Today’s Crazy Youth Sports World, and Founder of Player’s Fitness & Performance (“PFP”), who talked with Paul and Phil about some mindset hacks that can help us develop and rebuild, if necessary, a healthy mindset in ourselves and our athletes, some mistakes that 98% of parents of athletes make, his two books, his personal mission, lessons learned from his athletic career that he is using in his business, a couple mentors who have influenced his journey, and how we can overcome some of the most common mental obstacles athletes face. Specifically, Andrew discusses: ·      His personal story, including how he grew his passion for sports, fitness, and mindset and performance coaching, and how he got to be where he is today (6:35) ·      A common misconception about mental health and how we can overcome it (11:11) ·      His personal why/mission statement and how he is living it out (12:59) ·      The mentors who most influenced him and how they impacted him (16:43) ·      A defining moment in his life and how it impacted his development (21:08) ·      Lessons he has learned from sports that he uses in his business and coaching (23:55) ·      Some of the most common mental obstacles athletes face and how they can overcome them and fulfill their potential (25:54) ·      Social media and the comparison trap (31:08) ·      How you can rebuild a healthy mindset in a young athlete (33:38) ·      His two books, why he wrote them, and what he hopes his readers will get out of them (41:49) ·      Why parents and coaches also need to be focusing on their mental health as it relates to their children/players’ flourishing (49:21) ·      A couple common mistakes that 98% of parents make during their athletes’ journeys (51:32) ·      A couple mindset hacks that can help you and your athletes dominate in sports and life (57:21) ·      How he has used lessons learned from sports in his marriage and parenting (1:03:07) ·      His recommendations (1:05:58) Resources and Links from this Episode ·      Andrew’s Website ·      Uncut Video of the Episode ·      HSEL Facebook Group ·      Warrior Way Soccer ·      Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·      Phil’s email for DISC Training ·      Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It’s Impossible to be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature, by Peter Scazzero ·      You Win in the Locker Room First: The 7 C’s to Build a Winning Team in Business, Sports, and Life, by Jon Gordon and Mike Smith

In Episode 173, Phil and Paul discuss their highlights from the second half of HSEL’s Season 12, which included Frank Kelly, Sean Miller, Roman Khripunov, and Paul Caliguiri, as well as some other topics they have been pondering lately. You don’t want to miss some great leadership nuggets on vulnerability, perseverance, humility, hard work, integrity, and creativity. If you’re loving the show (or if you don’t love it ; )), please subscribe, give us your feedback, rate and review the show, and, most importantly, continually learn from the show and use it to help you flourish in everything you do. Resources and Links from this Episode ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training

In Episode 172, Paul Caligiuri, OCFC Manager, US Nat’l Soccer Hall of Famer, Former USMNT defender/midfielder and pro player in US and Germany, one of the first Americans to play professionally in Europe, and the unlikely scorer of the “shot heard ‘round the world,” talks with Phil and Paul about his remarkable journey from a passionate young soccer enthusiast to a defining figure in U.S. soccer history. He also recounts his serendipitous connection with Phil relating to a World War II era family relic, which you don’t want to miss, and some moments from his impressive soccer career, highlighting his passion-filled early years in the game, pivotal moments like his unexpected selection for the Olympic Development Program, which led to his USMNT selection, and an intimate moment he shared with God after scoring the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World,” which secured the U.S.'s first World Cup qualification in 40 years in 1990. Caligiuri emphasizes the importance of passion, perseverance, and integrity, their influence on his career, and how these values translate into his everyday life and leadership. Paul also touches on key lessons from sports that can be applied in life, the current state of soccer, and the importance of faith in making a meaningful impact. Specifically, Paul C. discusses: ·      His providential connection with Phil relating to a WWII relic and including a lot of investigation and perseverance (1:52) ·      How he developed his passion for soccer from humble beginnings and how he ultimately made the USMNT through a very unusual path filled with hard work, dedication, creativity, overcoming hurdles, “feeding his passion,” and going above and beyond the “normal” (you don’t want to miss this story) (5:45) ·      His life purpose and “Why” and how he is living it out in his life (34:50) ·      An intimate defining moment after the “shot heard ‘round the world” that might surprise you (36:35) ·      A special call with his dad that shows how far the game has come in the US (40:48) ·      Lessons that he has learned from soccer that he uses in his parenting and other important relationships in his life (43:33) ·      His recommendations (45:21) Resources and Links from this Episode ·                Paul Caliguiri’s website ·                “The Billion Dollar Goal” (Paramount Plus) ·                “His goal changed soccer in the USA” (YouTube) ·                Uncut Video of the Episode ·                HSEL Facebook Group ·                Warrior Way Soccer ·                Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                “Pulisic” (Paramount Plus) ·                “Vini Jr.” (Netflix) ·                “Captains” (Netflix)

In Episode 171, Roman Khripunov, Executive Director of Revival Sport and Facilitator for the North American Sport Movement, talks with Phil and Paul about his incredible journey from Uzbekistan to the United States, navigating the challenges of being a refugee and how he developed his passion for using soccer as a tool for ministry and community building. Roman shares personal stories of coaching, breaking down cultural barriers, and the impact of vulnerability and discipleship. The conversation covers the powerful role of sports in uniting diverse communities, particularly in the context of the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games. He also talks about the importance of having a short memory, knowing your role, and celebrating small victories. Phil also talks about a loss in his life and the importance of being vulnerable and allowing other people into your life and trials. Specifically, Roman discusses: ·      His Journey from Uzbekistan to Russia to the US with his family as a 12-year-old refugee, and some important lessons he learned along the way (9:41) ·      The humble beginnings of Cup of Nations and Revival Sport, and how they were birthed out of a love for the “sojourners” in Houston (19:22) ·      The plight of refugees and how you can help (23:23) ·      Roman's life purpose and how he is living it out (28:18) ·      How Roman when into ministry despite not wanting to (32:27) ·      The Nations United initiative, why the World Cup and Olympics provide massive opportunities for the Church in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and strategies we all can use to connect with people different from us (35:52) ·      Defining moments in his soccer journey and the lessons learned from them (47:22) ·      An important lesson learned through failure (54:18) ·      Information about the Global and North American Sport Movements (57:38) ·      How he has used lessons learned from soccer in marriage and parenting (1:00:24) ·      Recommendations (1:06:33) Resources and Links from this Episode ·                Revival Sport Website ·                Global Sport Movement website ·                North American Sport Movement website ·                Uncut Video of the Episode ·                HSEL Facebook Group ·                Warrior Way Soccer ·                Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                “All or Nothing: Manchester City” (Amazon Prime) ·                Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

In Episode 170, Sean Miller, founder of Upper 90 HQ, talks with Phil and Paul about his entrepreneurial journey that started with filming soccer games, leading to the creation of his video company that serves soccer teams and players around the US. Sean dives into his personal story, emphasizing how faith and soccer have influenced his leadership and shift in life priorities. He discusses the challenges and opportunities within the US soccer landscape, drawing from his family's extensive involvement in the sport. The discussion also covers Sean's leadership principles, his defining moments in soccer, and how the game has shaped his approach to marriage and parenting. Specifically, Sean discusses: ·      His story, his passion for soccer, leadership, entrepreneurship, and how he started Upper 90 HQ (6:54) ·      His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out (15:43) ·      How he has used lessons learned in soccer in his business life (20:15) ·      The power of vulnerability (27:05) ·      Lessons he has learned from a couple defining moments in his soccer career (33:03) ·      His thoughts on the current state of soccer in the US, from the youth to professional ranks, from the “Alphabet Soup” to the “Merry-Go-Round” (40:17) ·      Lessons learned from soccer that he is using in his marriage and parenting (55:28) ·      His recommendations (57:47) Resources and Links from this Episode ·                Upper90HQ Website ·                Uncut Video of the Episode ·                HSEL Facebook Group ·                Warrior Way Soccer ·                Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                “Adolescence” (Netflix Series) ·                “The Chosen” ·                “House of David” ·                Act Like Be a Man: 9 Ways to Punch Life in the Mouth, Mark Driscoll

In Episode 169, Frank Kelly, CEO of Kelly Benefits, Former Cornell Lacrosse and Football player, and Author of Influence and the Creator’s Game, talks with Phil and Paul about his extensive experience in sports, business, leadership, and ministry, and how his faith journey has deeply impacted all facets of his life. Frank shares personal stories from his athletic journey, his involvement with FCA, the concept of playing sports to please the Creator, and how sports can integrate with faith to influence lives for eternity. He also discusses how the principles and lessons learned from sports are applied in his family business, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and values. Listeners will gain insights into using sports to make disciples, developing a mission-driven business, and integrating faith into various aspects of life. Specifically, Frank discusses: ·      His sports, business, and faith journey (4:00) ·      A story from his not-so-extensive soccer coaching experience (13:35) ·      His personal “why” and life purpose, and how he is living it out (17:40) ·      The story behind his book, Influence and the Creator's Game and the concept of a “Praise Performance” (22:07) ·      The only thing that matters (27:17) ·      Impacting lives through lacrosse (29:52) ·      An incredible story about God’s Providence (35:22) ·      Lessons from lacrosse and other sports that he uses in his business (40:30) ·      Impactful coaches and mentors in his life (51:35) ·      Lessons from sport that he has used in his marriage and parenting (54:22) ·      His recommended books (56:31) Resources and Links from this Episode ·                Influence and the Creator’s Game, Frank Kelly III ·                Frank Kelly III’s website ·                Uncut Video of the Episode ·                HSEL Facebook Group ·                Warrior Way Soccer ·                Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                The Hard Hat: 21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate, Jon Gordon ·                The Secret: How to Live with Purpose and Power, Bill Bright

In Episode 168, Phil and Paul discuss their highlights from the first half of HSEL’s Season 12, as well as some personal and professional updates. They talk about their conversations with Wells Thompson, Don Williams, and Brad Kenney, as well as their “Extra Time” episode, delving into topics like vulnerability, what it takes to become a pro athlete, navigating the changing college soccer landscape, prioritizing family values and player development, and the importance of life beyond the game. If you’re loving the show (or if you don’t love it ; )), please to subscribe, give us your feedback, rate and review the show, and, most importantly, continually learn from the show and use it to help you flourish in everything you do. Resources and Links from this Episode ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                 The Soccer Psalms, Brad Kenney

In Episode 167, we are recasting our interview with Pete Kipley, Founder of Bolta Soccer, Music Producer and Songwriter, in which he talks with Phil about his journey from being a music producer to opening a soccer training facility in Nashville. He discusses the similarities between the music and soccer worlds, emphasizing the importance of mentality, culture, and leadership in both fields. Pete also talks about his philosophy at Bolta, focusing on curating quality trainers, creating opportunities, and connecting players with the right resources. The conversation delves into parenting, motivating young athletes, and the impact of COVID-19 on youth sports. Pete concludes with reflections on the qualities of effective coaches and the far-reaching implications of lessons from soccer on parenting and life. Specifically, he discusses: ·      His story of how soccer and leadership have influenced his life and how he ended up leaving the music industry to start an indoor facility. ·      His philosophy at Bolta Soccer and how they are curating, creating, and connecting in their development of trainers and players in their community ·      How breaking into and advancing in the music industry and the soccer world involve many of the same things ·      How the college soccer recruiting process prepares athletes for the world outside of soccer ·      What Pete has learned from the game of soccer as a man who has only recently fallen in love with the beautiful game, particularly what he has learned about the mental side of the game ·      The dangers and negative impact of parents, coaches, and other leaders micromanaging and pressuring the people they’re leading, and why it is critical to foster an environment allowing for a freedom to fail  ·      How to deal with failure and “bad balls” in soccer and life ·      The importance of teamwork and teammates covering for each other ·      The common threads that Pete has seen in the best soccer coaches he has worked with in his life ·      Principles from soccer that he applies in his marriage and parenting in his home (and Pete gets really philosophical on this one) ·      Resources that Pete recommends to us Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode Video of this episode Bolta Soccer website Warrior Way Soccer Phil’s email for DISC training “All or Nothing: Manchester City” – Amazon Prime “All or Nothing: Tottenham” – Amazon Prime “Ted Lasso” – Apple TV “Take Us Home: Leeds United” – Amazon Prime

In Episode 166 of How Soccer Explains Leadership, hosts Phil Darke and Paul Jobson discuss the intersection of youth soccer, leadership, priorities, and family values. Through personal and professional experience, they address the importance of aligning family priorities with athletic commitments. They emphasize the benefits of learning from losses, balancing sports and family life, and enabling kids to navigate conversations with coaches. The episode also explores the use of video cameras at young ages, impact of extensive travel for youth tournaments, and the pressures on young athletes. Specifically, they discuss: 03:40 Priorities in Youth Sports 07:03 Core family values and their role in commitment decisions 10:11 The role of sports in personal development 14:24 Balancing family and sports commitments 28:02 The importance of losing and learning 29:55 Facing adversity in sports and life 31:01 The importance of team camaraderie 32:42 Is extensive travel in youth sport necessary and advisable? 33:48 Balancing individual and team goals 34:57 Parental involvement and athlete development 39:10 The impact of over-scheduling on youth athletes 49:29 Encouraging self-advocacy in young athletes and relationship nurturing with your young athletes Resources and Links from this Episode ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training  

In Episode 165, Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Colorado Rapids Chaplain, talks with Phil about he has blended his passion for soccer, ministry, and leadership. Brad shares his personal story of his transition from high school soccer player to college videographer to Chaplain for the Colorado Rapids over two decades ago. They dive into Brad's experience in founding Soccer Chaplains United, how he navigates his role as a chaplain with players from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, and the leadership lessons he has learned along the way. They also discuss Brad’s book, 'The Soccer Psalms,' his personal purpose, and his experiences using life lessons from soccer in his marriage and parenting. Additionally, Brad shares insights relating to identity, performance, purpose, and calling from his interactions with players and coaches, emphasizing the importance of holistic care and leadership both on and off the field. Specifically, Brad covers: ·      2:20 How he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and ministry, and how he ended up as a Chaplain for the Colorado Rapids ·      12:41 His personal why and how he is living it out ·      19:25 Navigating Different Faiths, Cultures, and Backgrounds as a MLS Chaplain ·      23:51 Performance vs. Purpose vs. Calling Identity ·      32:15 Succession in Leadership ·      36:42 His defining moment in his soccer career and what leadership lessons he has learned from them ·      43:27 Why he wrote The Soccer Psalms and what he hopes people will take from it ·      49:12 Soccer Psalm 133 and a cool story about the night before the Rapids’ 2010 MLS Cup Victory ·      59:28 Great lessons he has learned from his soccer career that he has used in his marriage, parenting, and other relationships, including a “Stretcher Crew,” the “Crow’s Nest,” and your “Starting 11” ·      01:05:00 His recommendations   Resources and Links from this Episode ·                 The Soccer Psalms, Brad Kenney ·                 Soccer Chaplains United Website ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                 Cloud and Townsend website ·                 Patrick Lencioni (The Table Group) website

In Episode 164, we have another great interview with Don Williams, SRUSA Head of Operations for the Americas and former college coach at every level. He talks with Paul and Phil about modern trends impacting youth soccer and college recruitment. They explore the implications of the transfer portal, the challenges and opportunities related to international player recruitment, and how these transformations affect high school and club soccer. Williams shares his experiences with helping players navigate the complexities of college soccer aspirations and emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and appropriate fit over superficial labels. Issues such as NIL (name, image, likeness) and the potential changes in college sports dynamics are also addressed. Specifically, they cover: ·      05:38 What Don’s been up to since the last time we had him on HSEL ·      06:51 Transfer Portal and College Soccer Landscape ·      21:44 Intrinsic Motivation in Soccer ·      27:35 Changes in Youth and College Soccer ·      38:35 The Impact of Adult Expectations on Youth Sports ·      39:46 The Pursuit of Status and Its Emotional Toll ·      41:18 Finding the Right Fit ·      42:39 Balancing Competition and Enjoyment ·      46:21 The College Soccer Dilemma ·      54:55 The Role of International Players in College Soccer ·      01:08:13 Future Trends and Challenges in College Sports Resources and Links from this Episode       ·                 SRUSA Website ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training  

In Episode 163, we are kicking off Season 12 with a conversation with Wells Thompson, Former MLS midfielder and 1st Round Draft Pick, Co-Founder of Soccer Resilience, husband, and father. He talked with Paul and Phil about his journey from childhood adversity to the MLS, his struggles with identity and mental health, his faith journey and his personal why relating to that journey, his difficulties transitioning to life after soccer, why left Soccer Resilience after founding and leading it for a few years, and a lot of wisdom regarding true leadership. They also discuss how soccer and other sports are incredible classrooms, and how he is learning deep life lessons every single day as a stay-at-home dad, husband, and father of athletes. The interview is full of vulnerable moments, personal stories, and practical advice. Specifically, they discuss: ·      How Wells developed his passion for soccer, leadership, faith in God, and how he went from rolling with the wrong crowd, getting into drugs, and not being recruited to college to playing for Wake Forest and getting drafted 5th in the MLS Draft (7:30) ·      Lessons he learned in his pro career (16:10) ·      His transition to life after soccer (19:51) ·      His personal why, vulnerability as a superpower, and how he is living out his life purpose (26:58) ·      The revelation that caused him to leave Soccer Resilience (31:44) ·      How Soccer Resilience got started, some of the great things coming out of it, and how starting/running a business is like working to be a pro soccer player (and a couple great quotes from Nelson Mandela and Billy Graham) (35:39) ·      How he went from not making ODP to playing professional soccer, how that is relevant to the parenting of his kids while they are playing sports, and what we can learn from his journey (42:39) ·      Balancing pushing our kids to be the best they can be and learning life lessons from sports without getting too involved (especially at the wrong time or place) and/or forcing them to play sports they don’t want to play (51:11) ·      What actually goes into being a pro athlete (54:30) ·      What he didn’t learn as a pro athlete (hint: it is very relevant to this podcast) (56:25) ·      Leadership from the bench (1:00:26) ·      Lessons that he has learned from the game that he uses in his marriage and parenting (1:03:31) ·      What he has watched, read, or listened to that has impacted his thinking on how soccer explains life and leadership (1:06:58) Resources and Links from this Episode     ·                 Uncut Video of the Episode ·                 HSEL Facebook Group ·                 Warrior Way Soccer ·                 Coaching the Bigger Game Program ·                 Phil’s email for DISC Training ·                 Wrestling with Angels: A True Story of Addiction, Resurrection, Hope, Fashion, Training Celebrities, and Man’s Oldest Sport, John Hanrahan ·                 Main Street Millionaire: How to Make Extraordinary Wealth Buying Ordinary Businesses, Codie Sanchez