Episode 78 - Josh Washington & Charles Ruffing

Sort of a different episode. When I first started the podcast, every 7th episode was interviewing individuals who hadn’t been fired. On this episode I sat down with Josh Washington and Charles Ruffing. Back in 2010-11, I was in my 3rd year coaching college basketball and my first year back at my alma mater. The 2010-11 season was not pretty. We went 4-21. Josh was a senior on that team and Charles was a freshman. Fast forward to 2026 and both individuals are on Division I coaching staffs. Josh is at Jacksonville University as the men's basketball strength and conditioning coordinator (Josh was a previous FCP guest on episode #35). Charles is at Western Illinois University as an assistant men’s basketball coach.This episode reflects on their basketball careers, coaching philosophies, and lessons learned from their playing days. Their candid insights reveal how setbacks, humility, continuous learning, and relationships shape successful coaching careers, regardless of playing pedigree.01:15 - Reconnecting with college basketball memories from 2010-201102:10 - Lessons from a challenging season and resilience03:55 - Anecdote about leadership, and accountability06:56 - Navigating team dynamics between younger and older players08:24 - Handling losing streaks & maintaining a positive team culture10:42 - The importance of self-awareness, humility, and continued learning in coaching12:12 - The influence of playing pedigree on coaching opportunities12:58 - The role of mindset, impostor syndrome, and passion in career development14:27 - The transition from pedestrian player to successful coach and the chip on shoulder15:37 - The importance of mentors, humility, and growth through adversity16:33 - Building confidence and understanding success as a formula17:44 - The reality of rocky seasons and ongoing learning as a coach18:39 - Does division level matter? Differentiating division 1, 3, JUCO, and NBA experiences19:08 - Financial and resource disparities across divisions and their effect on coaching20:35 - Recognizing the value of lower-level coaching experience in career development22:00 - Falling in love with the process and adapting to resources24:33 - Growth from player to coach and the importance of self-identity26:55 - The turning point to becoming an avid reader and continuous learner28:10 - The impact of mentors and learning styles in coaching development29:38 - The passion for learning and outside-the-box thinking in coaching30:52 - Inspirational quotes on confidence and perseverance33:05 - Reflection on decisions, success, and relationships beyond wins and lossesBook References:-The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho-The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande-The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon-Give and Take by Adam Grant-Forty Eight Laws of Power by Robert GreeneFired Coaches Podcast will give you perspective of what it is like to lose a coaching position at the college level. Episodes will contain the trials and tribulations that coaches went through and give insight on what matters most. The ONLY podcast dedicated to giving fired, resigned or non-renewed coaches a voice.Make sure to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!Follow on X - https://x.com/firedcoachespodFollow our Newsletter - https://firedcoachespod.beehiiv.com/