How Soccer Explains Leadership Podcast From Performance to Purpose and Calling with Brad Kenney, Soccer Chaplains United Founder and Colorado Rapids Chaplain
In Episode 165, Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Colorado Rapids Chaplain, talks with Phil about he has blended his passion for soccer, ministry, and leadership. Brad shares his personal story of his transition from high school soccer player to college videographer to Chaplain for the Colorado Rapids over two decades ago. They dive into Brad's experience in founding Soccer Chaplains United, how he navigates his role as a chaplain with players from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, and the leadership lessons he has learned along the way. They also discuss Brad's book, 'The Soccer Psalms,' his personal purpose, and his experiences using life lessons from soccer in his marriage and parenting. Additionally, Brad shares insights relating to identity, performance, purpose, and calling from his interactions with players and coaches, emphasizing the importance of holistic care and leadership both on and off the field. Specifically, Brad covers:
· 2:20 How he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and ministry, and how he ended up as a Chaplain for the Colorado Rapids
· 12:41 His personal why and how he is living it out
· 19:25 Navigating Different Faiths, Cultures, and Backgrounds as a MLS Chaplain
· 23:51 Performance vs. Purpose vs. Calling Identity
· 32:15 Succession in Leadership
· 36:42 His defining moment in his soccer career and what leadership lessons he has learned from them
· 43:27 Why he wrote The Soccer Psalms and what he hopes people will take from it
· 49:12 Soccer Psalm 133 and a cool story about the night before the Rapids' 2010 MLS Cup Victory
· 59:28 Great lessons he has learned from his soccer career that he has used in his marriage, parenting, and other relationships, including a "Stretcher Crew," the "Crow's Nest," and your "Starting 11"
· 01:05:00 His recommendations
Resources and Links from this Episode
· The Soccer Psalms, Brad Kenney
· Soccer Chaplains United Website
· Coaching the Bigger Game Program