• Building Trust in Coaching Relationships- Coach Maddie
    Oct 14 2025

    In this episode of The Coaches Compass, Coach Maddie Zarchin shares her journey from being a Division 1 swimmer to a sports performance coach. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from athlete to coach, building trust with parents and athletes, and the importance of multi-sport participation. Maddie emphasizes the need for holistic health in coaching, the significance of empowering female athletes, and how to measure success beyond traditional metrics. She also offers advice for new coaches and shares insights on balancing coaching responsibilities with social media presence.


    Takeaways


    Transitioning from athlete to coach can be challenging but rewarding.

    Building trust with parents and athletes is crucial for success.

    Multi-sport participation can enhance overall athletic development.

    Coaches should prioritize their own mental health and well-being.

    Success as a coach is not just about metrics but also engagement and passion.

    Empowering female athletes and coaches is essential for growth in the industry.

    New coaches should embrace vulnerability and seek mentorship.

    Social media presence requires careful management to avoid burnout.

    Holistic health should be a priority in coaching practices.

    Understanding athletes' needs and adjusting training is key to effective coaching.


    Chapters


    00:00 From Athlete to Coach: A Personal Journey

    05:27 Building Trust: Overcoming Skepticism in Coaching

    10:34 The Balance of Coaching: Avoiding Burnout and Mental Health

    15:55 Defining Success: Beyond Metrics in Coaching

    20:10 Navigating the Online Coaching Landscape

    24:09 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4


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    24 mins
  • The Role of a Sports Performance Coach Explained- Coach Erica
    Oct 7 2025

    In this episode of The Coaches Compass, Coach Erica Lowery shares her journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a sports performance coach. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from athlete to coach, the importance of building relationships with sport coaches, and her approach to training young athletes. Coach Lowery emphasizes the significance of making a positive impact on her athletes' performance and well-being, while also sharing her aspirations for the future in the coaching field.


    Takeaways


    Coach Erica Lowery transitioned from athlete to coach during her college years.

    She emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of coaching beyond just training.

    Building relationships with sport coaches is crucial for effective collaboration.

    Young athletes should seek strength and conditioning training before college.

    Success as a coach is measured by athlete performance and relationships.

    Coach Lowery aims to work with competitive volleyball teams in the future.

    Simplicity in coaching methods can lead to better results.

    The journey of coaching involves continuous learning and adaptation.

    Imposter syndrome is a common experience for coaches at all levels.

    Positive impact on athletes' lives is a key goal for Coach Lowery.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Coach Erica Lowery

    05:44 Understanding the Role of a Sports Performance Coach

    11:04 Advice for Youth Athletes

    16:47 Future Aspirations and Hot Takes

    20:02 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4




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    20 mins
  • Athletes Together: The New Athlete Mental Health App- John Armistead
    Oct 1 2025

    Summary


    In this episode, John Armstead, co-founder of the Athletes Together app, discusses the importance of mental health in sports, sharing his personal journey as a former athlete and the need for accessible mental health resources for athletes. The conversation explores the features of the app, the different types of mental health professionals available, and the challenges of engaging coaches in mental health awareness. John emphasizes the need for proactive mental wellness strategies and the app's mission to support athletes in their mental health journey.


    Takeaways


    John Armstead's journey highlights the need for mental health support in sports.

    The Athletes Together app aims to provide athlete-specific mental health resources.

    Mental health is directly correlated with athletic performance.

    Education about mental health resources is crucial for athletes.

    The app will feature a variety of mental health professionals.

    Proactive mental wellness strategies are essential for athletes.

    Only 19% of colleges have a sports psychologist on staff.

    Engaging coaches in mental health discussions is vital for athlete support.

    Balancing startup challenges with personal mental health is a common struggle.

    The app is set to launch on October 1st, aiming to help athletes of all levels.


    Sound Bites


    "I didn't even know what was out there."

    "We need to work on this a little bit more."

    "It's their job to win games."


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in Sports

    01:48 The Need for Athlete-Specific Mental Health Support

    05:38 Features of the Athletes Together App

    08:11 Understanding Different Types of Coaches

    09:22 Access to Mental Health Support for Athletes

    11:24 Building Awareness Among Coaches

    12:19 Balancing Startup Life and Mental Health

    14:00 Launch Plans and Key Takeaways

    16:08 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4


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    16 mins
  • Networking and Seeking Information: Coach Hannah
    Sep 30 2025

    In this episode of The Coaches Compass, Coach Hannah Whitbread shares her journey from being an athlete to a strength and conditioning coach. She discusses the challenges and rewards of coaching her former teammates, the importance of strength training for athletes, and the cultural differences in coaching between Australia and the United States. Coach Hannah emphasizes the need for balance in her life as a young coach and reflects on what success means to her in this field. The conversation concludes with her thoughts on the supplement industry and her excitement for the future of her coaching career.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Coach Hannah

    05:36 Cultural Differences in Coaching

    11:12 Work-Life Balance in Coaching

    15:28 Final Thoughts and Hot Takes

    15:31 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4

    Takeaways


    Transitioning from athlete to coach can be seamless with the right culture.

    Building trust with athletes is crucial for their buy-in.

    Strength and conditioning is essential for all athletes, not just those in track.

    Cultural differences impact coaching styles and athlete development.

    Access to resources in high schools can enhance athlete performance.

    Networking and seeking information are vital for career growth.

    Setting boundaries is important to avoid burnout as a coach.

    Success in coaching is about long-term relationships with athletes.

    Seeing athletes succeed is the most rewarding aspect of coaching.

    Nutrition and a good diet are more important than supplements.



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    16 mins
  • Life is Not About Football: Coach Kofi
    Sep 23 2025

    In this episode of The Coaches Compass, Coach Kofi Hughes shares his journey from being a former athlete to becoming a sports performance coach. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from an athlete to a coach, the importance of preparing young athletes for life after sports, and the evolving culture of coaching. Kofi emphasizes the significance of mentorship and advocacy in coaching, particularly in light of the changing landscape of college sports with NIL opportunities. He reflects on defining moments in his coaching career and the fulfillment he finds in helping young men grow and succeed beyond the field.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Personal Journey

    05:14 Life After Sports: Preparing Young Athletes

    10:20 Changing Football Culture and NIL Impact

    15:12 The Role of Advocacy in Coaching

    25:12 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4


    Takeaways


    Kofi transitioned from training young athletes to corporate clients for sustainability.

    He emphasizes the importance of preparing athletes for life after sports.

    Kofi's coaching approach is rooted in vulnerability and authenticity.

    He encourages athletes to explore interests outside of sports.

    The culture of coaching is evolving, allowing for more personal development.

    NIL has changed the landscape of college sports, benefiting athletes financially.

    Kofi's defining moment was witnessing a former athlete's success in the NFL.

    He believes in the importance of mentorship and advocacy for young athletes.

    Kofi aims to help athletes live well beyond their sports careers.

    Life after sports is a critical conversation that needs to start early.



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    25 mins
  • From Athlete to Sales: A Journey of Change With Jebrai
    Sep 19 2025

    Summary


    In this episode, the hosts discuss the challenges and experiences of transitioning from a sports career to life beyond the field. They explore themes of identity, the unforgiving nature of American culture, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the struggles athletes face when leaving their sport, the lessons learned, and the desire to give back to the community. The guests share their personal journeys, the cultural shock of returning to the U.S., and the financial pressures that come with life after sports. They emphasize the need for athletes to find their purpose and the importance of mentorship in helping the next generation.


    Takeaways


    Transitioning from sports to a new career can be challenging.

    The identity crisis after leaving sports is common among athletes.

    American culture can be unforgiving, especially for those without support.

    Community support is crucial for athletes transitioning out of sports.

    Experiences in sports can prepare individuals for life's challenges.

    Athletes often feel pressure to continue playing due to fear of the unknown.

    Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose.

    Cultural differences can impact the transition experience.

    Financial stability is a significant concern for retired athletes.

    Mentorship can help guide younger athletes through their journeys.


    Sound Bites


    "I feel like I can still perform like one."

    "There's a part of me that feels bad."

    "I would do it all over again."


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Life After Sports

    02:44 Transitioning from Sports to Sales

    05:39 The Emotional Impact of Leaving Sports

    08:03 Finding Peace in Career Changes

    10:30 Cultural Shock: Returning to America

    13:10 The Unforgiving Nature of American Life

    16:00 Navigating Health and Financial Challenges

    18:54 The American Dream vs. European Stability

    20:43 Navigating Identity Shifts After Sports

    22:30 The Pressure to Keep Playing

    25:54 Understanding the Expiration Date of Athletic Careers

    27:51 Leaving a Legacy in European Football

    29:35 Philanthropy in Sports Training

    32:10 Future Aspirations Beyond Football

    33:34 Advice for Transitioning Athletes

    35:34 The Meaning Behind the Journey

    37:53 Reflections on the Journey and Its Value

    44:33 Minimalist Black White The End Animation Video-2.mp4


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    45 mins
  • Balancing Life and Coaching: Insights from Jevon Bowman
    Sep 16 2025

    In this episode, Coach Jevon Bowman shares his journey from being a college football player to becoming a strength and conditioning coach. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from player to coach, the importance of work-life balance, and the impact of coaching on athletes' lives. Coach Bowman also reflects on his decision to start his own business, the struggles he faced, and the fulfillment he finds in helping others achieve their goals.


    Takeaways


    Coaching is a calling, not just a job.

    Transitioning from player to coach can be challenging.

    Building respect as a young coach is crucial.

    Work-life balance is essential for mental health.

    The importance of having a supportive team.

    Learning from mistakes is part of growth.

    Networking is vital for career advancement.

    Starting a business requires humility and learning.

    Helping others find their potential is rewarding.

    Coaching impacts lives beyond sports.


    Chapters


    00:00 The Journey to Coaching: A Calling

    04:03 Transitioning from Player to Coach

    08:10 Balancing Coaching and Personal Life

    12:02 Overcoming Challenges in Coaching

    14:59 Starting a Business: The Leap of Faith

    20:56 The Impact of Coaching on Lives


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    25 mins
  • The Art of Coaching: Building Relationships- Alex Curro
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of The Coaches Compass, Coach Alex Curro shares his journey from being a passionate baseball player to becoming a strength and conditioning coach. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from athlete to coach, the importance of building relationships with athletes and coaches, and how success in coaching goes beyond just wins and losses. Alex emphasizes the significance of communication and interpersonal skills in coaching, and how making a positive impact on athletes is what drives him in his career.


    Takeaways


    Coaching is a calling, not just a job.

    Building relationships is crucial for effective coaching.

    Success in coaching is measured by the impact on athletes.

    Communication skills are essential in coaching.

    Understanding different athlete backgrounds enhances coaching effectiveness.

    Coaches must adapt their communication style to their audience.

    Passion for coaching can help overcome burnout.

    Purpose in coaching is more important than pay.

    Creating a positive environment is key to athlete development.

    Making a small impact daily can lead to significant changes.


    Chapters


    00:00 The Journey Begins: Discovering Coaching as a Calling

    02:39 Transitioning from Athlete to Coach: Letting Go of Dreams

    05:41 The Importance of Communication in Coaching

    08:38 Building Relationships: The Key to Coaching Success

    11:15 Managing Personal Well-being in Coaching

    13:49 Measuring Success Beyond Wins: The Impact of Coaching

    16:38 Finding Purpose in Coaching: The Driving Force

    19:31 The Final Thoughts: Why We Do What We Do


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    23 mins