Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this episode, Keith Grabowski shares insights from his Sunday newsletter, featuring Joe Loth, Head Coach at Southern Connecticut State, who discusses effective play selection and game planning. Wes Goodwin, LB Coach at Oklahoma, outlines structured game week preparation focused on efficiency in the defensive game plan, while Jeff Simmons, Special Teams Coordinator at Carnegie Mellon highlights the importance of film prep for special teams, specifically blocking kicks. Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: ⁠https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Josh Lindke, Head Coach at Toledo St. Francis, shares his inspiring journey of leadership and resilience. Taking over a program that had six head coaches in just five years, Lindke faced the daunting challenge of reviving a struggling football team. He discusses the “trial by fire” of stepping into the role, the importance of culture and belief in transforming a program, and why fit matters more than anything in coaching. Lindke reflects on his transition from a successful tenure at Otsego to leading St. Francis, and how persistence, leadership, and a positive daily outlook have breathed new life into the program. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Journey Transitioning from Assistant to Head Coach Challenges of Coaching a Struggling Program Building Belief and Culture in a New Program Transforming St. Francis Football Looking Ahead: The Future of St. Francis Football Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Josh Lindke: @Coach_JLindke Learn More About Our Partner: The Headset App Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level. Download The Headset App today and start coaching smarter! Transform your football program with CultureAI! Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai. The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Gary Swenson, Head Coach at Valley High School, to discuss the unique intensity of rivalry games in high school football. They dive into the emotional impact these games have on players and communities, the strategic preparation required by coaches, and the importance of moving forward after the final whistle—win or lose. Swenson also shares insights on the challenges of facing rivals multiple times in a season, the decisive role of special teams in game mechanics, and how routine and fundamentals help players thrive under pressure. This episode highlights not only the competitive spirit of high school football but also its deeper role in fostering school pride and community connection. Chapters Introduction to Rivalry and Season Start The Emotional Impact of Rivalry Games Preparation Strategies for High-Stakes Games Moving On After a Rivalry Game Facing a Rival Again: Adjustments and Strategies Special Teams and Game Mechanics Conclusion and Reflections on Coaching Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Gary Swenson: @CoachSwensVTFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski sits down with Brandon Linney, Recruiting Coordinator and RB Coach at Bryant University, to explore the real path behind coaching success. From his early days coaching high school football to making the leap into the college ranks, Brandon shares a candid look at the journey—emphasizing the impact of relationships, mentorship, and consistently adding value to every staff you join. The conversation offers practical insights into recruiting, networking, and the mindset shift needed to transition from high school to college coaching. Whether you're aiming to grow professionally or lead your athletes more effectively, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on work ethic, teaching philosophy, and career progression. It’s a must-listen for any coach ready to take the next step with purpose and persistence. Chapters The Journey of Coaching: From High School to D1 Building Value and Relationships in Coaching Overcoming Challenges and Networking for Success Pour Into Your Journey: Embracing Change The Unique Value of Coach Portal Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Brandon Linney - @CoachLinney Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at https://www.coach-portal.com/ and make your next move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Patrick Walsh Head Coach of Serra High School to explore how efficiency and innovation can transform football practices. Drawing from his own experiences, Walsh explains how effective practice structures not only maximize time but also create a competitive environment that mirrors real game scenarios. He shares insights on managing two-way players, the value of starting practices with team activities to set the tone, and the importance of strong communication among the coaching staff. The conversation also highlights how technology—tools like Hudl and GoRout—has revolutionized practice management, streamlining organization and boosting player engagement. Chapters Introduction to Efficient Practice Strategies Structuring Practice for Success Competing in Practice: Simulating Game Scenarios Managing Two-Way Players Effectively The Importance of Communication in Coaching Leveraging Technology for Practice Efficiency Utilizing Support Staff for Enhanced Practice Dynamics Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Patrick Walsh: @coachwalsh20 Related Podcasts: The Unsung Heroes of Football Staffs- Trevor Hudson, Keegan Wirtz, Patrick Walsh, Mark Solis National Coach of the Week- Patrick Walsh, Head Coach, Serra HS (CA) Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at ⁠gorout.com/podcast Transform your football program with CultureAI! Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai. The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, Orange Lutheran High School (CA) Head Coach Rod Sherman reflects on his unique journey into coaching and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Despite having no background as a football player, Sherman’s path shows how leadership, consistency, and personal growth are essential to creating a lasting impact both on and off the field. He shares insights on balancing family life with the demands of coaching, the value of feedback in driving improvement, and how traveling for competitions creates meaningful memories for players. Sherman also discusses the pressures coaches face to meet expectations, the importance of embracing a growth mindset, and how technology and mental health awareness are reshaping the modern game. Chapters Introduction to Coach Rod Sherman Rod Sherman's Unique Coaching Journey Traveling for a National Stage Leadership and Leading from a Full Cup Balancing Personal Life and Coaching Embracing Feedback and Growth Mindset The Pressure of Expectations in Coaching Utilizing Technology in Coaching Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠ Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo ⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Jacob McDaniel, a student assistant at the University of Oklahoma, to discuss the critical role that growth, time management, and relationship-building play in the early stages of a coaching career. Jacob shares his perspective on how young coaches and student assistants can stand out in competitive environments by being proactive, consistent, and intentional in their development. From taking detailed notes to understanding the broader vision of a program, this episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to turn opportunity into long-term success in coaching. Chapters Introduction to Growth and Learning as a Student Assistant Setting Yourself Apart in a Competitive Environment Building Relationships and Understanding the Bigger Picture Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Jacob McDaniel - @_jacobmcdaniel Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at ⁠⁠https://www.coach-portal.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ and make your next move. Transform your football program with CultureAI! Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at: coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai⁠. The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Your Call presented by The Headset App, Bobby Johnson III, Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach at Norwich University, shares his coaching philosophy and the power of the Cycle of the Snap in building mental toughness and team culture. Drawing on lessons from his previous coaching stops at RPI and UNE, Johnson explains how consistency, communication, and structured practices help players reset quickly after each play and stay locked in under pressure. He breaks down practical strategies for reinforcing mental resilience, from using verbal and physical cues to evaluating performance immediately after snaps. Johnson also highlights the importance of full commitment from the coaching staff and adapting approaches to meet the unique needs of his players at Norwich. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy The Cycle of the Snap Building Mental Toughness Implementing the Cycle of the Snap Commitment to the Process Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Bobby Johnson III: @CoachJohnsonOL Learn More About Our Partner: The Headset App Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level. Download The Headset App and start coaching smarter! Transform your football program with CultureAI! Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai. The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Coach and Coordinator podcast, Chris Herman shares his journey from quarterback at Oberlin College to entrepreneur, helping athletic programs tell their stories through modern content creation. He discusses the power of branding in high school and college sports, and how engaging players in the process not only builds morale but also creates lasting keepsakes for families and communities. Chris emphasizes the value of media guides—both digital and print—as tools for fundraising, sponsorships, and long-term visibility. He also breaks down practical steps for coaches, from delegating responsibilities to building a sustainable content system that elevates program identity. Chapters Introduction and Growth of Story of the Season Creating and Curating Content for Teams Getting Players Involved and Creating a Strong Team Identity Why Branding Matters in High School Athletics How to Create a Media Guide for Your Sports Program Fundraising Ideas and Ways to Connect with the Community Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Together a Media Guide Learn more at: StoryOfTheSeason.com Keith Grabowski X: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠ Chris Herman X: @StoryTheSeason Win more games. Leverage tools like the QB Development platform and in-game analytics to sharpen your attack. Book a Demo with Modern Football Technology today. The 10% Toolkit Coach and Coordinator is committed to bringing coaches the very best products and services in the game. Our 10% Toolkit is a trusted buyer’s guide—resources that carry our seal of certification and can help your program win more consistently. CultureAI Resources Strengthen your program from the inside out. Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinatornetwork.com/cultureai The workbook is packed with practical prompts, templates, and real-world examples designed to help coaches evaluate, align, and elevate their team’s culture. It’s a step-by-step playbook for leaders who want a stronger, more unified program all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Jonny Ulibarri, assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach at Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, dives into the world of in-game analytics. He reveals how his team adopted analytics from day one, customizing software to enhance communication and decision-making. Ulibarri shares insights on streamlining halftime adjustments and using AI to condense scouting data from weeks into minutes. He emphasizes the impact of data on player evaluations and recruiting, showcasing how technology revolutionizes coaching strategies.