Win More, Live Better

In this episode, Zach shares the famous parable of the farmer and the runaway horse to explore why leaders and performers often judge moments too early. A loss, injury, setback, or disappointment can feel defining in the moment, but most moments are incomplete stories. This episode breaks down the dangers of binary thinking, emotional overreaction, and attaching permanent meaning to temporary circumstances, while offering a more grounded way to navigate life's circumstances.Learn More About Zach:Explore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

What can a Paris restaurant with almost no menu teach us about leadership and culture? In this episode, Zach shares a lesson from Le Relais de l’Entrecôte and explores why strong cultures are not built by trying to be everything to everyone. Zach explores why leaders often overcomplicate culture by adding more (e.g. meetings, standards, values, options, etc.) and why the better move is often to clarify the main thing you’re serving in your environment.Learn More About Zach:Register for the upcoming free webinar on Monday, May 11th at 4pm (PST) -- Register HereExplore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Most coaches use film to help players improve, but very few use it to evaluate themselves. In this episode, Zach shares why reviewing your own meetings, practices, conversations, or presentations can dramatically improve your communication and leadership effectiveness. Drawing from his own experiences with podcasting and public speaking, he explains how self-review exposes blind spots, reveals patterns, and accelerates growth.Learn More About Zach:Register for the upcoming free webinar on Monday, May 11th at 4pm (PST) -- Register HereExplore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

What happens when you stop trying to suppress emotions and start learning how to work with them? In this episode, I build on my recent conversation with Amy Morin to explore the connection between emotional awareness and mental strength. We discuss emotion labeling and I also share a real-life example on the power of journaling about your emotions from NBA player, Steven Adams.Learn More About Zach:Register for the upcoming free webinar on Monday, May 11th at 4pm (PST) -- Register HereExplore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Amy Morin is a licensed psychotherapist, keynote speaker, award-winning host of the Mentally Stronger podcast, and an international bestselling author of six books on mental strength, including the globally acclaimed 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.Her work has been featured by major outlets including Good Morning America, Today, Oprah, Tamron Hall, and the BBC. Her TEDx Talk, The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong, has been viewed more than 24 million times, and her writing and speaking have helped millions of people rethink what it means to build resilience, manage adversity, and grow mentally stronger.Amy’s passion for teaching mental strength comes from both her clinical expertise and her personal experience. After losing her mother and husband by the age of 26, she began exploring mental strength not just as a therapist, but as someone trying to navigate grief, uncertainty, and life’s most difficult moments herself.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[7:18] — From Grief to Mental Strength[10:50] — The Power of What Not to Do[13:18] — The Myth of Mental Toughness[16:32] — Building Discomfort Tolerance[19:33] — Helping Athletes With Anxiety Before Performance [22:38] — The 3 Components of Mental Strength[26:11] — Stop Giving Away Your Power[28:16] — Controlling What You Can Control[31:45] — The Mental Strength Playbook[34:37] — Emotion Regulation for Coaches[37:24] — Mental Strength Takes Reps[40:05] — Confidence Isn't a Feeling[44:13] — Helping Resistant Athletes[47:41] — Learning to Ask for Help[50:03] — Life on a SailboatLearn More About Amy:Learn more about Amy's coaching, speaking, and books hereLearn More About Zach:Register for the upcoming free webinar on Monday, May 11th at 4pm (PST) -- Register HereExplore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

The expectations you hold for others are never neutral. In this episode, we break down the Pygmalion Effect (also known as the Rosenthal Effect) and the classic 1968 study with school children that revealed how important expectations can be. If you're a coach, leader, parent, teacher, or anyone in an authority position, and you want your people to grow, it starts with what you expect from them (and how you show it).Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

One of the most common forms of interference for performers is misinterpreting progress. In this episode, we discuss the bamboo tree and how it symbolizes why growth is often delayed, invisible, uneven, and misunderstood. You’ll learn a helpful perspective shift to stay patient and persistent when results lag behind effort.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

What if your performance isn’t limited by your ability, but by the story you keep telling yourself? In this episode, we break down the powerful story of Bo Eason, a former NFL All-Pro safety who reframed a defining moment from his childhood into a powerful identity that helped propel his career.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

This is a special episode. It marks the one year anniversary of this podcast and offers a reflection on what it’s taken to get here and the role others have played along the way. I discuss why having a coach or trusted voice in your corner can accelerate your growth in ways that are hard to replicate on your own. Drawing on conversations with elite coaches and leaders, I share a simple way to think about the role this person plays and how they can help you see more clearly, stay consistent, and turn insight into action.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

What does it look like to immediately go from one of the most decorated athletes in college sports to leading that same program from the sidelines? In this episode, I sit down with Erin Matson, head field hockey coach at the University of North Carolina and one of the most accomplished athletes in the history of the sport.During her playing career, Erin helped lead UNC to four NCAA Championships and five ACC titles, while becoming the all-time leading scorer in both ACC history and NCAA Tournament play. She’s a five-time ACC Player of the Year (the only athlete in any sport to earn that honor five times) and a three-time recipient of the Honda Sport Award for Field Hockey.Shortly after graduating, she stepped into the role of head coach at just 23 years old and, in her first season, led the Tar Heels to both an ACC Championship and a National Championship. In addition to her collegiate success, Erin has competed on the U.S. National Team since the age of 17, representing the country on the international stage and continuing to contribute to the growth of the game.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[6:23] — Being Announced as Head Coach[10:17] — First Message to the Team[17:10] — Shifting From Playing to Leading[22:57] — The "Spinning Plates" Lesson[30:01] — From Survival to Creator Mode[38:27] — Developing Yourself as a Coach[44:40] — Coach Development Drives Player Development[48:54] — Who Is Your Person?[52:04] — Lessons From Elite Leaders[1:00:57] — Pride in the Small DetailsFollow Erin's Coaching Journey:Follow Erin on Instagram hereLearn More About Zach:Explore 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Are you leading to be seen or to help others feel seen? In this episode, we break down the difference between “spotlight” and “lighthouse” leadership. One is focused on perception. The other is focused on service.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

We have a human tendency to try and rush (or get) through certain moments in life, especially when they're inconvenient or not easy. But there's a simple reframe and perspective you can adopt that can dramatically shift how you experience these moments and live a life that's more appreciative, present, and joyful. Today's episode is inspired by the ancient Stoics and gives us a new way to look at our daily experiences so we don't miss moments we might later wish we still had.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

In this special “From the Other Side of the Mic” episode, I join Cindra Kamphoff on The High Performance Mindset podcast to discuss leadership and mindset in the realm of high performance. We also preview the upcoming Virtual Mental Performance Summit (Friday, April 17th) and explore practical ways coaches and leaders can elevate how they think, perform, and show up for others.Learn More About The Mental Performance Summit:You can learn more and register hereLearn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

Most New Year’s resolutions focus on what we want to do and achieve, but very few focus on how we need to think. This episode introduces the concept of a “thinking resolution” and explains why your thoughts play a critical role in your ability to follow through on goals and build sustainable habits. You’ll learn how to identify the thought patterns that are holding you back, replace them with more effective ones, and create simple daily reminders to stay aligned with the mindset you need to succeed.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

Wilt Chamberlain once improved his biggest weakness (e.g. free throw shooting), but he abandoned it because he implemented a technique that he thought others would ridicule. This episode explores a phenomenon in human behavior known as the threshold theory and why performers may avoid what works due to social pressure. We discuss some of the psychology behind “copycat leagues” form and how coaches can lower the psychological barrier to help athletes perform at their highest level.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

What separates elite performers in high-pressure moments? Preparation. In this episode, we break down how Captain Sully’s 2009 emergency plane landing and Ray Allen’s iconic 2013 NBA Finals shot reveal a core principle: Performance under pressure is a reflection of your preparation. Learn how to train both physically and mentally so you can stay composed, execute when it matters most, and avoid relying on hope instead of reps. Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

If you were evaluated like a financial stock, would your daily habits justify someone else investing in you? Inspired by my conversation with Wake Forest head soccer coach, Bobby Muuss, this episode breaks down how consistency and daily deposits shape how others evaluate (and trust) you. You’ll also learn how to approach each day like a one-day contract and why that mindset can change how you show up.Learn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule a free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter here

Bobby Muuss is the head men’s soccer coach at Wake Forest University and one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division I soccer over the past decade. Since taking over the program in 2015, he has led Wake Forest to the most wins in the country during that span, along with multiple ACC Championships, eight Sweet Sixteen appearances, six Elite Eights, and two College Cup runs.Prior to Wake Forest, Muuss served as the head coach at the University of Denver, where he led the program to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championships, while earning conference Coach of the Year honors. Before that, he spent time as an assistant coach at Wake Forest under Jay Vidovich, contributing to one of the most successful stretches in program history, including a national championship.Muuss has also developed dozens of professional players, including MLS draft picks and national team talent, while earning multiple ACC Coach of the Year honors at Wake Forest.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[6:13] — Inheriting a Powerhouse Program[11:27] — Finding Your Coaching Identity[17:00] — Leadership Starts with Self-Work[21:29] — The Accountability Gap Today[27:34] — Confidants in the Locker Room [29:32] — Making Meetings Matter[32:52] — "Earn the Jersey" Culture[36:15] — Patience in Development[40:46] — Building Your Coaching Staff[44:58] — Accountability Starts at the Top[47:08] — Coaching Is Lonely[52:24] — Advice for Future Head Coaches[55:56] — Stocks Analogy[1:00:15] — The Impact Beyond the Game and WinsLearn More About Zach:Get 1:1 coaching with Zach -- Schedule free call hereSubscribe to my free newsletter hereYou can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

None of us get to choose when difficulty shows up in our lives, but we do get to choose if (and how) we use it. In this episode, we break down why most people waste difficult moments and Zach shares a story from the actor Michael Caine that can shift how we respond to and view the inevitable adversity we confront.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In the 1500s, mapmakers would sometimes stamp “Here be dragons” on the edges of their maps, which marked places no one had yet explored. In this episode, we explore how that same instinct shows up in modern life when you’re facing risk or uncertainty and why your brain is quick to assume the worst. You’ll learn how to recognize when fear is shaping your decisions and why the ability to navigate uncertainty (not predict it) is a valuable skill anyone should develop.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Hiring is one of the most important decisions a coach makes, but it's rarely discussed in a public setting. In this After the Whistle segment, we build on insights from Arizona State head coaches JJ Van Niel and Molly Miller, both of whom emphasize that being intentional about who you hire and finding staff who complement you as a leader. This episode explores why "fit" matters more than resumes, how great leaders build complementary staffs, and why your hiring process is a direct reflection of your culture.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

JJ Van Niel’s path to becoming one of the top coaches in college volleyball is anything, but conventional.After spending more than a decade in the financial world (including investment banking and hedge funds), Van Niel made the leap into coaching, bringing with him a unique lens on leadership, systems, and performance. Today, he is the head coach at Arizona State University, where he has quickly transformed the program into a national contender.In his first three seasons, Van Niel has led the Sun Devils to back-to-back Big 12 Championships (which are the only conference titles in program history), while earning Conference Coach of the Year honors each year. His teams have set program records for winning percentage, produced multiple All-Americans, and made deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, including regional semifinal appearances.Before Arizona State, Van Niel was an associate head coach at USC, helping guide the Trojans to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and previously served at Utah during one of the most successful stretches in program history. He has also contributed to the U.S. Women’s National Team, supporting Olympic and World Championship preparation through scouting and analytics. This conversation explores the journey behind his success and how JJ’s unconventional background continues to shape the way he leads, builds teams, and develops people.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:21] — Transition from Finance to Coaching[11:03] — Coaching Like A CEO[16:30] — Building a Complementary Staff[27:15] — Learning From Hiring Mistakes[31:13] — Intentionally Building Relationships[38:10] — Weekly Performance Check-Ins[40:52] — The Core 4 Pillars for ASU's Program[48:32] — Growing as a Coach[55:37] — The Courage to Pivot to CoachingLearn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Most of us have been taught that nerves are a problem we have to solve. The vast majority of advice that gets recommended to manage nerves centers on trying to calm down, but what if I told you that this advice is counterproductive? After winning The Players Championship, PGA Tour golfer Cameron Young described his nerves as useful and how they help him become capable of better performance. In this episode, we break down why your body’s response to pressure is actually designed to help you perform. If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety in big moments, this episode will give you a new way to understand it and a better way to use it.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Some of the most difficult conversations I have with athletes, coaches, and high-achieving leaders aren’t about performance. They’re about the sacrifices they make in this pursuit, especially as it relates to their families. They’re conversations about missed birthdays, missed weddings, time spent physically absent, and the guilt of missing everyday moments that can't be replaced. If you're a high-achiever pursuing your own dreams and ambitions, but struggling with the cost of this in your personal life, then this episode is an invitation for you to remind yourself of what they also gain from your pursuit.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In this After the Whistle segment, we unpack how self-doubt and the inner critic can shape our performances and the way in which we lead others. Drawing on insights from Cleveland Guardians' Major League Manager, Stephen Vogt, and research from Ethan Kross, you’ll learn how to challenge unhelpful thoughts, interrupt mental spirals, and take control of the most important conversation you have each day.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In this episode of the Win More, Live Better Podcast, Zach sits down with Stephen Vogt, manager of the Cleveland Guardians and a former 10-year Major League Baseball veteran and two-time MLB All-Star.Originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2007, Vogt spent years grinding through the minor leagues before making his big league debut in 2012. Over the next decade, he built a reputation as one of the most respected catchers in the game known not only for his performance, but for his leadership inside the clubhouse.During his playing career, Vogt suited up for several organizations including the Rays, Athletics, Brewers, Giants, Diamondbacks, and Braves. Not long after hanging up his cleats, Vogt transitioned into coaching, joining the Seattle Mariners staff in 2023 as a bullpen and quality control coach. In November of 2023, he was named the 45th manager in Cleveland Guardians franchise history, becoming one of the youngest managers in Major League Baseball.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:53] — When Stephen Knew He'd Coach[8:51] — Leadership Behind the Plate[12:03] — Failure, Empathy, and Perspective[16:49] — Transition from Player to Manager[21:00] — The Emotional Weight of Coaching[23:36] — Building Your Own Leadership Style[26:14] — Self-Doubt and The Inner Critic[30:30] — Three Non-Negotiables for the Team Culture[35:06] — Warning Signs for Culture Drift[39:29] — Creating Space for Truth-Telling[44:01] — Building the Right Staff[47:36] — The Power of Curiosity[52:17] — Deleting Social Media to Protect Your Mind[54:08] — Win Today[55:48] — Learn the Lesson, Leave the Event[58:29] — Support Behind the Scenes[59:40] — Being Present as a FatherLearn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Mistakes are inevitable in sport, but too often performers get derailed when they allow those mistakes to snowball. In this episode, we explore a key statistic from the best golfer in the world, Scottie Scheffler, called the bounce-back stat. We break down what causes mistakes to spiral and how athletes and leaders can develop the skill of bouncing back quickly.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

How often do you carry something long after the moment has passed? In this episode, Zach shares a powerful parable about two monks that reveals how easily we hold onto unhelpful thoughts. You’ll learn how to separate the event from the story, why release is a skill high performers develop, and how one simple idea ("The Invisible Backpack") can help lighten the load.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

After his conversation with Dr. Paul Zak, Zach dives deeper into the science of trust and what it means for coaches and leaders. Drawing from Zak’s research on oxytocin and high-trust organizations, this After the Whistle episode explores eight leadership behaviors that strengthen connection and performance inside teams. If you want to build a culture where people feel trusted, valued, and motivated to give their best, this episode offers a practical framework to start.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Today I'm joined by Dr. Paul Zak, a distinguished university professor at Claremont Graduate University, a pioneer in the science of trust, and one of the world’s leading researchers on the neurobiology of human connection. He holds a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and is ranked in the top 0.3% of the most cited scientists globally. Over the course of his career, Dr. Zak has published groundbreaking research on trust, oxytocin, and the biological foundations of cooperation, leadership, and human flourishing.A sought-after speaker and thought leader, he has delivered talks in more than 30 countries and is a six-time TED speaker. His work has been leveraged by globally recognized organizations and audiences including Google, Facebook, Microsoft, the Association for Talent Development, ING Bank, and HSM. Through his research, writing, and speaking, Dr. Zak helps leaders better understand how trust, connection, and emotional fitness shape performance and strengthen organizations.In this conversation, we explore the science behind trust and relationships in high-performing teams, the role of psychological safety and challenge in leadership, and why social connection may be one of the most powerful drivers of both performance and thriving. Dr. Zak also shares insights from his research on emotional fitness, why humans are biologically wired for connection, and practical ways leaders can design environments where people can perform at their best, while also living well.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[4:44] — Research Into the Neurobiology of Human Connection[8:46] — Trust Is the Lubricant of Team Performance[15:15] — Emotional Awareness for Leaders[20:58] — Pushing Performers to Failure[29:09] — Two Key Building Blocks for Trust[34:33] — Emotional Fitness[42:50] — Connection Is Essential to Winning[48:50] — Invest in Human Beings, Not Human Capital[52:34] — Lead From Love[58:24] — Social Connection Is Key for Recovery[1:05:26] — Kids and People Need "Time Ins" (Not Timeouts)Learn More About Dr. Paul Zak:You can learn more about Dr. Zak and his work on his website here.You can check out his Six Emotional Wellness app here.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

In a world obsessed with shortcuts and hacks, the reality is the path to mastery is often much simpler (and much harder) than we'd like to believe. Regardless of your industry or chosen craft, a universal and timeless principle is that greatness is usually built through an accumulation of a lot of purposeful reps and effort. Inspired by a story with comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld, this episode offers a reminder to all of us to keep working so the results eventually compound for us.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Have you ever had a moment with someone you know where something just felt off? Maybe their tone was different, their energy seemed lower, or they reacted in a way that didn’t quite match who they normally are. In this episode, Zach explores why understanding someone’s “normal” is a valuable skill for coaches and how great leaders become pattern recognizers.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Obsession often fuels excellence, but what happens when the thing that makes you great becomes the only thing that defines you? In this episode, Zach reflects on his conversation with former Division I head coach Matt Doherty and explores the tension between an all-in obsession with your craft and your identity. How do we pursue mastery without tying our entire sense of self to something we can lose? This episode is a deeper look at identity, ambition, and building a foundation beyond your job title, role, or position.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In this episode of Win More, Live Better, Zach sits down with Coach Matt Doherty, an executive leadership coach, keynote speaker, and former Division I head coach for a candid conversation on leadership and the art of rebounding forward.Matt’s leadership journey began as a starter on the 1982 National Championship team at North Carolina, playing alongside Michael Jordan under the legendary Dean Smith. He later became the Head Coach at Notre Dame and North Carolina, leading UNC to the 2001 ACC Regular Season Championship and earning AP National Coach of the Year honors. He also served as head coach at FAU and SMU, and has worked with ESPN, the Indiana Pacers, and the Atlantic 10 Conference. Today, he guides corporations, C-suite leaders, sales executives, and sports coaches to strengthen leadership skills, culture, and team dynamics. Committed to his personal mission to “Learn & Grow” every day, Matt has further sharpened his leadership lens through experiences at the UVA Darden School of Business and The Wharton School.In this conversation, Matt reflects on the lessons behind his book Rebound, unpacking the realities of public pressure, identity loss, and resilience for coaches. He shares practical leadership frameworks including his “Six Knows” and the organizational triangle of talent, systems, and culture.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[4:17] — Rebound Forward[10:25] — Landmines in Coaching[15:06] — What I Do vs. Who I Am[23:49] — The "Six Knows" of Leadership[35:41] — The Organizational Triangle[44:27] — Every Leader Needs a Coach[49:48] — Morning Routines & Coach Yourself FirstLearn More About Matt:You can learn more about Matt and his work on his website here.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

If the people you lead anonymously graded you today, what would they say? Every year, the NFL Players Association surveys players across the league. While organizations are graded on dozens of categories, head coaches are evaluated on only two components. In this episode, we break down what that means for coaches, executives, and leaders at every level including practical audits you can run immediately to improve buy-in and commitment inside your organization.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

More choices don't always help us make better decisions. In fact, most of the time, more choices not only hinders our speed with decision-making, it can also hinder our commitment to them. Drawing inspiration from Hick’s Law, Zach explores how cognitive overload can slow reaction time and undermine trust. If you’ve ever seen athletes hesitate under pressure, this episode will invite you to rethink complexity, commitment, and the power of simplicity in execution.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

When Snoop Dogg received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he said something that caught people off guard. In this episode, we unpack his lesson on gratitude and why high performers often forget to recognize one critical source of strength. If you’re a coach, athlete, or leader who constantly raises the bar but rarely pauses to acknowledge what you've achieved, this conversation will challenge how you think about gratitude.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Most coaches don’t burn out from workload, but rather because they get disconnected from their purpose and why they're coaching in the first place. In this After the Whistle segment, Zach unpacks Tracy Slusser’s perspective on proactively defining your leadership identity before the “house is on fire.” Discover how clarifying your mission, values, and principles can anchor you during chaotic seasons and help you sustain energy, purpose, and impact over the long run. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In today's episode of Win More, Live Better, I sit down with Tracy Slusser, an executive leadership and performance coach and former collegiate and international swim coach. For more than 20 years, Tracy lived inside Division I athletics, which started as a student-athlete at Purdue University, then led to 17 years coaching at the highest levels in the sport of swimming. She coached three National Championship teams, represented the United States as a National Team coach, and worked with Olympic medalists and other world-class athletes. Today, she brings that experience into her work supporting coaches and leaders through values-based leadership and executive coaching. In our conversation, we unpack the identity trap of tying self-worth to wins and losses, how to separate what you do from who you are, coaching from freedom instead of fear, and the paradox of grit and self-compassion for achievers. She shares why values-based leadership is a key foundation for her work with coaches and offers some practical recommendations for how coaches can protect their energy and create a more sustainable relationship with coaching. Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:33] — Impostor Syndrome in Coaching[8:54] — The Fear of Screwing It Up[11:34] — The Identity Trap[15:51] — Leading Yourself First[18:05] — Values In Action[20:30] — The Paradox Between Grit and Compassion[24:18] — Who Coaches the Coaches?[29:40] — The Courage to Leave Coaching[34:04] — What Coaches Are Struggling With[35:56] — The Iceberg Beneath the Issue[39:54] — Values-Based Leadership[45:24] — Giving Coaches Permission to Ask for Help[50:55] — Protecting Your Energy[53:55] — Realities Women Face in Coaching[58:32] — Creating a Values-Aligned LifeLearn More About Tracy:You can learn more about Tracy and her work on her website here.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

We’ve been told that comparison is the thief of joy, but I’d actually argue some forms of comparison are useful. In this episode, I break down the difference between sideways vs. backwards comparison and why the latter can help us build confidence. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Inspired by the book, Through the Looking Glass, the Red Queen effect explains why any species (including humans) must adapt and evolve to not just survive, but to also stay ahead. In sport and life, sometimes it feels like our skills and progress plateau, but we forget that those around us are striving to improve every day too. In competitive environments where everyone is improving, effort alone rarely creates separation. True advantage comes from accelerating learning, integrating resources, and proactively evolving systems.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

On this "After the Whistle" segment, Zach unpacks why ambiguity creates tension in teams and how transparency reduces interference. Building off his conversation with Georgetown Head Baseball Coach Edwin Thompson, this episode explores the psychology of uncertainty, why “maybe” can feel worse than bad news, and three practical ways leaders can create clarity around standards, decisions, and expectations to build trust and unlock performance.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Today's guest is Georgetown University Head Baseball Coach, Edwin Thompson.Since taking over the Georgetown program in 2020, Thompson has led the Hoyas through the most successful stretch in school history, highlighted by a record-setting 36-win season in 2024. Under his leadership, Georgetown has produced BIG EAST Player and Pitcher of the Year honorees, multiple first- and second-team all-conference selections, and back-to-back MLB Draft picks.Before leading the Hoyas, Thompson served as head coach at Eastern Kentucky, where he led multiple 30-win seasons and coached All-Americans, Academic All-Americans, and multiple MLB draft picks. His resume also includes coaching roles at Duke University, Georgia State, Bates College, and the University of Maine at Farmington. In addition, Thompson has spent four years working with USA Baseball, evaluating and coaching elite national-level talent.This episode offers a comprehensive look at the leadership, program-building, and player development philosophy behind one of college baseball’s most respected and rising head coaches.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:31] — Background Before Coaching[7:13] — Finding Connection Points With Players[10:55] — Relationships Are Key[14:56] — Being Transparent[19:56] — Coaching Other Sports[27:13] — Recruiting Character[32:05] — Onboarding New Players[40:37] — Fostering Belief and Confidence[45:42] — Leadership Lessons From a Losing Season[53:25] — Owning Mistakes as a Coach[59:40] — Leadership Lessons from MLKLearn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Most of us try to avoid losing, but if you want to become an elite performer you're better of learning how to leverage it. Inspired by Josh Waitzkin and his book, The Art of Learning, this episode explores how elite performers reframe failure as a deposit into future growth. Learn how to process losses productively, avoid the hidden cost of playing it safe, and turn setbacks into growth. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

When we're preparing to experience something new, many of us default to seeking wisdom from others (directly or indirectly) to prepare ourselves accordingly. But some lessons in life, sport, and leadership have to be acquired through first-hand experience. So if you’re stepping into a new season, role, or challenge, this episode will help you understand why some of the most important lessons in leadership can’t be pre-packaged.Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

In pursuit of mastery, good luck not experiencing failure along the way. This episode is a reminder that losing and failure will be inevitable in sport (and in life), but how you recover and bounce-back from it is a trainable skill. As an extension of my guest interview with USA Men's Head Volleyball Coach, Karch Kiraly, this episode is a glimpse into essential three strategies for managing failure more effectively.  Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Today we're joined by the Team USA Men's Volleyball Head Coach, Karch Kiraly. Karch is one of the most accomplished figures in the history of volleyball and one of the few individuals to reach the pinnacle of the sport as both a player and a coach.Widely regarded as the greatest volleyball player of the 20th century, Karch Kiraly is a three-time Olympic gold medalist, winning twice in indoor volleyball and once in beach volleyball. As a collegiate athlete at UCLA, he helped lead the Bruins to three national championships and later became one of the most dominant beach volleyball players ever, earning 148 career tournament wins and six AVP MVP awards. His playing career alone earned him induction into multiple Hall of Fames, including the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.As a coach, Karch has built one of the most consistent and successful programs in international sport. He served as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team for 12 years, compiling a 327–81 record and leading the team to its first-ever Olympic gold medal in Tokyo (2021), along with multiple Volleyball Nations League titles and a World Championship. In 2024, he guided the U.S. Women to an Olympic silver medal in Paris before being named Head Coach of the U.S. Men’s National Volleyball Team later that year.In this conversation, Karch and Zach explore the human side of elite performance and leadership including what Karch learned during his first year leading a new national team, why self-doubt still shows up at the highest levels, how elite teams train failure recovery, and why pressure is best understood as something we choose, not something imposed on us. This conversation offers timeless lessons for coaches and leaders navigating transition, pressure, and the thin margins that define high performance.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:23] — Transitioning to Head Coach for the Men's National Team[10:41] — Lessons Learned in 2025[14:37] — Recovering From Failure[16:22] — Training Athletes to Respond to Failure[23:20] — Pressure Is a Privilege[31:42] — Developing a Better Perspective Toward Pressure[36:54] — Embracing Imperfection and Winning Ugly[39:39] — Mastering Struggle[43:53] — Coaching With a Beginner's Mind[49:18] — Body Language [51:23] — Caring About the Human, Not Just the PerformerLearn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/You can watch the video recordings of the podcast on YouTube here.

Every year during the Super Bowl, companies spend millions of dollars for just 30 seconds of attention. This episode uses Super Bowl ads as a metaphor to explore why focus is one of your most valuable assets and how easily it gets spent without intention. Learn why attention functions like currency and how to create an internal “reset advertisement" to align your focus with what matters most. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Moylan’s Arrow explores how one small design decision removed friction for millions of people and what it can teach us as coaches and leaders about environment design. Drawing inspiration from the real life story of Jim Moylan, this episode unpacks why leadership is less about telling people to “figure it out” and more about creating conditions for great work to occur. You’ll learn how to spot hidden friction and leverage the right people in your organization to remove it. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/

Achieving goals don’t always require massive effort, but they do require leverage. In this episode, we explore The Domino Effect and why extraordinary results rarely come from doing everything or trying harder. Borrowing from physics, we'll discuss how small, intentional actions (when lined up correctly) can compound into powerful momentum. Learn More About Zach:If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to sign up for a free discovery call to see how I can best support you: https://calendly.com/zachbrandon/discoverycallFor more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/