Our guest today is none other than Don Yaeger, the multiple New York Times bestselling author, inspirational keynote speaker, executive coach, and so much more! In this episode, Don shares his journey of accidentally falling into journalism and going on to work his dream job as the Associate Editor of Sports Illustrated, before making a risky career pivot at age 45. You’ll learn about the challenges of his transition, the importance of being coachable, and what makes consistency the hallmark of greatness. Don has encountered some extraordinary people in his life, and he shares his remarkable experience of being mentored by the legendary Coach John Wooden, as well as the profound advice he received from Walter Payton in the last few weeks of his life. You’ll also hear a detailed account of the time he scored on Michael Jordan, plus so much more! Make sure not to miss this inspiring conversation about curiosity, humility, legacy, and everything in between!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Don Yaeger’s approach to bettering himself through curiosity.
- His inspiring story of betting on himself and making a career pivot at age 45.
- How he accidentally fell into a career in journalism and how it shaped him as a risk-taker.
- Don’s transitional experience of stepping out of his dream job.
- The value of coaching and the importance of being coachable.
- A common trait possessed by great athletes and coaches: the ability to manage adversity.
- Don’s perspective on leadership in these tumultuous times.
- His experience of being mentored by the legendary Coach John Wooden.
- What makes consistency the hallmark of greatness.
- The challenge of building a routine in today’s world.
- Invaluable advice Don received from Walter Payton in the last few weeks of his life.
- Don’s thoughtful approach to meeting and interviewing extraordinary people.
- Don recounts the time he scored on Michael Jordan.
- What ‘legacy’ means to him, both personally and professionally.
- His advice for his 16-year-old self: slow down!
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To ask a question, read the transcript, or learn more, visit MichaelRedd.com.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Don Yaeger
Don Yaeger on LinkedIn
Don Yaeger on Instagram
Don Yaeger on Twitter
Michael Redd
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