The Coaching Life Podcast

In this episode of The Coaching Life, we discuss one of the most underrated traits in sports: game awareness. Why do some athletes always seem to be in the right place, make the right play, and help their teams win—even if they aren’t the most physically gifted players on the field? We explore the hidden skill that separates good players from great ones and share practical ways coaches can help develop this awareness in their athletes. If you’ve ever heard a coach say, “That kid just gets it,” this episode explains what that really means.

In the world of high school athletics, the overlap of sports seasons can create unique challenges for coaches and players alike. In this episode of the Coaching Life Podcast, hosts Pat Martin and Chris Stewart explore these complexities, particularly as they relate to baseball and basketball. With the start of baseball season coinciding with basketball tournaments, how do coaches ensure their athletes are prepared and safe?

In this episode, Chris and Pat highlight the importance of mental strength and the role of "mindset" in coaching and athlete development. They introduce a unique gift from a mutual friend, Coach Steve Miller, which consists of 52 Athlete Mindset cards designed to help athletes focus on their training and mental preparation.

Welcome to Season 13 of The Coaching Life Podcast! We are excited to keep rolling these episodes out. We hope you will join us and share us with others! Thank you to everyone who has been with us the past 6 years, and if you have joined us more recently, we are grateful for you as well! Let's grow together, and let's grow the coaching community!

In the final episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, hosts Pat Martin and Chris Stewart share some updates on the Bobcats football team and discuss the importance of team culture. The main emphasis of this episode is providing "12 Tips of Christmas" for coaches, players, and parents. They share an insight and then discuss each one for 2-to-3 minutes. We think you will enjoy this fast-paced episode to conclude the season.

Chris and Pat discuss the implications of over-coaching. We'll explore how excessive instruction can hinder athletes' natural instincts and decision-making abilities, leading to confusion and robotic performance. The conversation also touches on the importance of simplifying coaching techniques and allowing athletes to develop their skills through play rather than constant correction.

In this episode of the Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat reconnect after a 2-week break, sharing personal updates and diving into recent sports topics. They discuss some controversies in the NFL and college football, the implications of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in Ohio High School sports, and the impact of coaching changes on teams. The conversation also touches on the Ohio Bobcats football team and the complexities of the MAC Championship tiebreakers. Throughout the episode, they reflect on the importance of focusing on what can be controlled in sports and in life.

In this episode of the Coaching Life podcast, Pat and Chris discuss the changing dynamics of athletes from different generations. They hit on themes of emotional intelligence, and the balance between accountability and sensitivity in coaching.The conversation also goes into some other directions, touching on the implications of NIL and transfer rules in high school sports, but overall, emphasizing the need for coaches to adapt their strategies to meet the needs of modern athletes while fostering accountability and personal growth.

When Isiah Kiner-Falefa took that short lead off third base in Game 7 of the World Series, the baseball world exploded with opinions. Analysts, fans, and even players criticized what they saw — but few stopped to ask why.In this episode, we talk about the danger of making quick snap judgments while we're watching games. Whether it’s a base running decision in the World Series on national TV, or a lineup choice on a high school team, there’s almost always more going on than what’s visible from the outside.We discuss how coaches can communicate context, how players can trust their preparation, and how fans and parents can develop a healthier perspective on the game.What we see isn’t always what it seems — and the best teams thrive on understanding the why behind every decision.

In episode 202 of The Coaching Life, Chris and Pat sit down with Kendall Hickey, libero and leader on the Ohio University volleyball team. Known for her relentless defense, leadership, and deep faith in Christ, Kendall shares how her identity is rooted in something far greater than the game.

Eastern High School Volleyball Coach, Courtney Whittington invited Coach Stewart out to speak to the team on the week of preparation for their District Championship game. In this talk, Chris gives the team two reminders for how to be in control of the "butterflies" and emotions you feel in anticipation of big games.

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, we talk about the little things coaches often assume players already know — but too often don’t take time to teach. These “should already know” moments can be the difference between a win and a mistake that costs you a game. Who is responsible when they make those mistakes? HINT: it is always us, coaches. In this episode, we discuss how to intentionally build these habits into practice, create awareness by letting them figure some things out on their own and develop a high IQ for the sport. Whether you coach baseball or any sport, this episode is a reminder that the fundamentals aren’t always as obvious as we think.

NOTE: we had some technical difficulties with the audio in this episode. The volume varies depending on who is speaking and the audio is not the same quality as our other episodes. However, the content is without a doubt some of the best quality we have ever had on the podcast!ABOUT THE EPISODE: For most athletes, the game has been part of their life as long as they can remember — and one day, it ends. What happens next can be one of the biggest transitions they’ll ever face.In this episode, we sit down with Brennan Meadows, former offensive lineman for the Ohio University Bobcats, who opens up about his journey from playing at Dawson-Bryant High School in Coal Grove, OH to competing at the college level — and then, stepping away from the sport after his freshman year.Brennan shares what that process was like emotionally, physically, and spiritually, how he’s rediscovered purpose beyond football, and how his time as an athlete still shapes the way he approaches his new path in media and communications through Ohio University’s Scripps College.

Every athlete’s path looks different — and sometimes the biggest growth happens when the spotlight isn’t on you.In this episode, Chris and Pat sit down with Delaney Crawford, wide receiver for the Ohio University Bobcats, whose journey from high school quarterback and track standout in California to college wideout in the MAC is a story of resilience, adaptability, and faith.Originally recruited to play quarterback at Virginia, Delaney has learned what it means to embrace change, stay patient, and keep working even when the plan shifts. He shares what it’s like to transition positions, transfer programs, and continue developing in every aspect of his life, while trusting the process and the people around him.

Discipline, standards, accountability, behavior — all are words that can make or break a team. In this episode of The Coaching Life, Chris and Pat dive into the tough conversations around holding athletes accountable.When a player shows up late, displays bad body language, or challenges team standards, how should a coach respond? Is it about punishment, or is it about teaching life lessons that extend far beyond the field?Through real-life case studies, we explore:​Why consistency in discipline matters ​The tension between talent and team culture.​Creative ways to make discipline a positive part of player development.Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this conversation will challenge how you think about consequences, standards, and the role of sports in shaping character.

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat talk about artificial intelligence in youth and high school sports. From breaking down swing mechanics and optimizing practice plans to helping parents understand their child’s development, AI is becoming a tool that coaches, players, and families can use to enhance everyone's experience of the game. Whether you’re a coach, player, or parent, this conversation is about how AI can be a helpful teammate in the ever-changing world of technology and sports.

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat dive into how coaches can invest in the "middle-bottom" players of your roster (forgive us for that label, it's tough to describe). But, how do we keep them motivated, and how do we help them understand their value. We’ll talk about:Why and how the middle-bottom players often set the tone for team cultureHow to define success beyond playing timePractical ways to keep these players engaged and motivatedHow to use practice to build their confidence and skillThe bigger picture: coaching every player is a "big picture" skill for coachesWhether you coach youth sports or a high school sport, this conversation is about making sure every kid on your team is seen, valued, and developed. Because at the end of the day, it’s the whole roster that builds a team’s culture.

Coaching isn’t just about practices, games, and strategies — it’s about the little things in between. In this episode, Chris and Pat talk about the subtle but powerful moments that shape a team’s culture: conversations on the bus, greetings at practice, building connection, being intentional about gratitude.These “in-between” moments often go unnoticed, but they build trust, connection, and buy-in over time. Whether you coach at the youth, high school, or college level, the little things you do outside of the game can leave the deepest impact.

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat dive into one of the most important—and sometimes, most underprepared—aspects of youth and high school sports: practice.Are we practicing the right way or the wrong way? Do drills actually build transferable skills, or are they just busy work? How much of our time should be spent on fundamentals versus competition?We tackle questions like:Are our practices preparing players for real game situations? How can we design drills that force decision-making instead of mindless repetition?What’s the right balance between technical, skills work and competitive reps?We also challenge coaches and parents to rethink the purpose of practice and to ask tough questions about their own routines and to even discuss with your players, "What did you learn today?"

After a summer break, Chris and Pat are back to kick off Season 12 of The Coaching Life Podcast! In this episode, we share an overview of some of the conversations we’ll be having this season, including:Are we practicing the right—or wrong—way?Coaching the “middle” and “bottom” kids on a team.The impact of bus rides, team meals, and other “little things” that shape a season.…and much, much, more!Join us as we set the stage for another season of honest, practical, and sometimes tough conversations about the realities of high school and youth sports.

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat dive into a conversation about loving the sport you play. We chat about the deeper connection athletes can have with their game, their team, and the entire experience of being part of something bigger than themselves.We discuss:✅ Why passion for the game matters sometimes as much as talent for the game✅ The impact of loving your team—through wins, losses, and everything in between✅ How youth coaches and parents can help young athletes develop a lifelong love for their sport✅ The powerful impact youth coaches at younger levels can have on the success of a high school program🎙️ Subscribe, share, and let us know—what do YOU love most about the sport you play?

The anticipation is mounting as Opening Day for High School baseball is just days away. The first game Pat and Chris's teams will play this season will be against each other! This is the topic of today's episode, because we can't think of much else right now! LOL

In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat dive into the unique challenges and strategies that come with being a head baseball coach during the crucial first week of the new season. They discuss how to set the tone for the year, establish team expectations, and build momentum both on and off the field.Key topics covered include:⚾ Evaluating Your Roster — Balancing early-season player assessments with giving athletes time to settle in.⚾ Practice Planning — Structuring practices to sharpen fundamentals while integrating game-specific situations.⚾ Team Chemistry — Building relationships among players and fostering a positive, focused culture from day one.⚾ Handling the Unexpected — How to adapt when the weather, injuries, or other surprises throw a curveball into your plans.⚾ Communicating with Parents and Players — Setting clear expectations for roles, playing time, and team goals.Chris and Pat also share personal stories from their own coaching experiences — the lessons they’ve learned, the mistakes they’ve made, and the small wins that build the foundation for a successful season.Tune in, take notes, and get ready to lead your team with purpose!🎙️ Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.

Our friend, Justin Roush, joins us for a great conversation about developing expectations for yourself. Justin is starting an LLC and podcast of his own, titled "Walk-On Academy."We chat with him about his plans and vision, as he shares from his own experiences of walking onto the Ohio University football team 25 years ago.

The title sums up the conversation in #188. We talk a little bit about trending issues in the NFL, but that's not the important part. In this episode of The Coaching Life Podcast, Chris and Pat gear up for the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association (OHSBCA) Clinic happening this week in Columbus, Ohio! We dive into the details of this must-attend event for high school baseball coaches, sharing why it’s more than just another conference—it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and be inspired. Whether you’ve been coaching for decades or are just getting started, the clinic is packed with sessions that can elevate your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and deepen your impact on the athletes you lead. We explore the vital importance of being lifelong learners in the coaching world, challenging ourselves and our listeners to stay curious, adapt to new ideas, and constantly improve—both for our athletes and for ourselves. Episode Highlights: What to expect at the OHSBCA Clinic: speakers, topics, and more. Why professional development is critical, no matter where you are in your coaching journey. The value of networking with other coaches to share experiences and build your support system. Personal stories about how conferences and clinics have shaped our own coaching careers. Encouragement to get out of your comfort zone and prioritize your growth as a leader. If you’re a high school coach in Ohio or any other state, let this episode be your nudge to commit to getting better and investing in yourself. The game is always evolving—are you? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Coaching Life Podcast so you never miss an episode. Let’s keep learning and growing together! Join the conversation: What’s one thing you’re hoping to learn or improve as a coach this year? Let us know by tagging us or commenting on our latest post!

In this episode of The Coaching Life, Chris and Pat talk about the Ohio State Buckeyes’ National Championship and uncover a critical aspect of sports that often goes unnoticed: the disconnect between fans’ perceptions of the player-coach relationship and the reality behind the scenes. From social media memes, viral locker room moments, to sideline interactions, they discuss why fans may romanticize or misinterpret these relationships and how the media and "FANaticism" shapes our understanding of why a coach is or isn't successful. Whether you’re a Buckeyes fan or just someone fascinated by the nuance of sports, this episode offers a perspective on the complexities of coaching and the importance of building authentic connections with players. Conversation: Share your thoughts and stories with us on the Spotify comments section or on X @TheCoachingLife. Don’t Forget to Subscribe: If you enjoy our discussions, don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to The Coaching Life wherever you listen to podcasts, and leave us a review to help others discover the show.

Welcome to Season 11 of The Coaching Life Podcast! Chris and Pat kick off the new year with energy, excitement, and a renewed commitment to exploring the fun and sometimes crazy world of youth and high school sports. Join us as we set the tone for an all new season filled with impactful conversations, fresh perspectives, and actionable advice to help you navigate the challenges and joys of coaching and parenting in sports.

We walk through the historic season for Ohio University football, and Parker Navarro's role in helping the Bobcats win the first Mid American Conference Championship since 1968.

We had the honor to chat with Coach Billy Roper from Adairsville, Georgia about the benefits of training the overall athlete for all the various sports they may play. Billy has much experience and wisdom, having worked for 29 years as a baseball coach and 28 years as a football coach.

A handful of years ago Chris wrote a book titled "Building Champions," and the last chapter discussed a common issue in our culture, which is pervasive in youth sports culture. Groupthink is a very real problem, and we need to do our best to recognize when we are participating in it.

We've had a lot of fun chatting with Brooks McKeller and so we invited him to join our conversation again today on a variety of topics, from golf to baseball to football chapel services. You'll have to listen all the way to the end to understand the title of this episode!

Today we take some time to devote an entire episode to Pat's beloved Cleveland Browns. But, the conversation isn't a glorious one. We talk about some of the drama surrounding the fan base and players in context of Deshaun Watson's season-ending injury.

"My all-time favorite baseball player was Pete Rose. It's not because he was the greatest player in the game, although he holds some of the game's greatest records that will likely never be broken. It's not because he was the most upstanding citizen; he had a hard, stubborn, ego and everyone knew it. What I loved about Pete Rose was the way he played the game of baseball when he was between the baselines. He was the essence of "blue collar" baseball. What I loved about Pete Rose was the fact that he made every little boy believe that they, too, could one day play professional baseball. You might be able to say a lot of things about Pete Rose, but it could never be said that he did not play to win. Whether it was Game 7 of the World Series, an All-Star Game, or a church picnic game, he played to win." – Chris Stewart

We might have found a third host for The Coaching Life Podcast. Brooks McKeller is a senior on the Ohio University Golf team, and he is our guest in this episode. This conversation is SO good. We encourage you to take the time to listen to it in it's entirety.

When you are on a team, or coaching a team, that is used to losing, how do you change that? We all know of those teams that just seem to have a culture of winning, and we also know the ones that just seem to have a culture of losing. What makes them so different? Of course, there are many factors, and we didn't have time to go over them all. Do a search and you will find hundreds of books written on this topic. Still, we think you might find this conversation compelling, and hopefully useful.

We are seeing a generation of young people who are leading in many different ways. That's today's conversation.

We began today's conversation and were reminded that it was September 11. So we decided to just talk about it for an episode. This is different from a lot of our conversations on the Coaching Life Podcast, but we believe it is important. Never forget.

The single greatest factor in any problem, conflict, misunderstanding, or mistake is communication – lack of, not enough, poor – communication is always at the center. Today we bring into our conversation the issue of communication as it relates to coaches and coaching. What you say... How you say it... Why you say it... When you say it... COMMUNICATION is the number one skill we need to constantly be developing.

This conversation kind of went in several directions, but all with similar themes. How does your body language affect your teammates?

What is the perfect sport? What criteria would you consider to determine what makes the perfect sport? Pat and Chris share their (admittedly not unbiased) opinions on what makes the perfect sport, giving credence to several different sports in this episode.

Our conversation topic today was provided by a listener: What do we think about the Savannah Bananas?

We open Season 10 with a conversation about being cocky... or is it confidence? Is swagger the same thing? As always, we hope to spark some interesting and useful thought to help us all get better in how we relate to our players and coach our teams. We hope you will subscribe, follow, share, and participate with us for a new season of The Coaching Life!

We go back and revisit our original mission for starting the podcast and compare it to where we are today and some of the new things we are currently involved with. We are excited to help create (or revive) a new opportunity for young people in our community to play summer ball. In this episode, we talk about how it is coming to fruition.

We are discussing a topic that was requested by a listener of the podcast, which is one of our favorite ways to get content. Let us know what you want us to have a conversation about in a future episode!

It's time to get caught up and back into the flow of podcasting. Consider this episode a warmup for Season 10.

We just want to let you know that we are still here and still podcasting! We have a lot to talk about from this past spring and a lot to look forward to in the next season of The Coaching Life Podcast.

We are over a week into the High School baseball season and we reflect on our experiences and lessons learned so far this season.

Our old friend Lukas Moore joins us from his new homefront in Wrigleyville, Chicago. This is a very rich conversation about coaching, motivating people, and the value of being part of a team working together to accomplish a goal.

Today we revisit a question that comes up a lot. It's a topic that is always relevant because of the tension that is always felt by players, parents, and coaches. Should you play multiple sports or should you specialize? Should we always answer it the same way for every athlete? Is age a factor in the answer? Pat and Chris definitely have strong opinions on the matter, but they also will provide data and real examples for why they hold the opinions they do, both as coaches and as fathers.

Today's episode discusses the difference between PRINCIPLES and METHODS, and challenges coaches to consider ways in which they might need to change when it comes to their coaching. Do you have "20 years experience," or do you have "1 year's experience of the same thing 20 times in a row?"