Episode 17: Rhett 'Rooster' McLennan

From local footy beginnings to coaching at Melbourne Football Club, his journey is one of persistence, growth, and continual improvement.Rhett “Rooster” McLennan is one of Australian football’s most respected coaches. He’s the most successful coach in Gippsland Power history and now serves as Head Coach of the Casey Demons while also working as a Development Coach at Melbourne Football Club.During his six years at Gippsland Power, an incredible 32 players were drafted into the AFL.But this conversation isn’t about game plans, premierships or draft picks.It’s about the person behind the coach.Rooster has always been known as a great teammate, a great clubman and someone who genuinely cares about the people around him. He works incredibly hard, loves having a laugh, gives back to his community and is always searching for ways to improve himself and those around him.We explore what leadership looks like when it isn’t just about winning football games, the importance of health and fitness, fatherhood, marriage, raising Harper and Fletch with his wife Melinda, and the role reading has played in his personal growth.We also dive into the idea of “talent stacking”—the belief that you don’t have to be world-class at one thing to become exceptional. Sometimes being really good across a handful of important areas can create extraordinary results. Rooster shares why small daily improvements create a snowball effect over time and how compound interest applies just as much to life as it does to money.Along the way we discuss the best player he’s coached, overcoming imposter syndrome, the value of voice memos and reflection, and yes… some of the outrageous outfits he’s become known for over the years.This episode is packed with practical wisdom on leadership, family, coaching, personal growth and living a life of continual improvement.Whether you’re a coach, parent, leader or simply someone wanting to become a little better each day, this conversation is full of lessons you can apply immediately.