How Soccer Explains Leadership Podcast

In Episode 174, we are recasting our interview with Andrew Simpson, Mindset Coach, Author of Athlete! I'm Talking to You: 7 Mindset Hacks to Dominate in Sports and Life and The Youth Truth: Coaching & Parenting in Today's Crazy Youth Sports World, and Founder of Player's Fitness & Performance ("PFP"), who talked with Paul and Phil about some mindset hacks that can help us develop and rebuild, if necessary, a healthy mindset in ourselves and our athletes, some mistakes that 98% of parents of athletes make, his two books, his personal mission, lessons learned from his athletic career that he is using in his business, a couple mentors who have influenced his journey, and how we can overcome some of the most common mental obstacles athletes face. Specifically, Andrew discusses: · His personal story, including how he grew his passion for sports, fitness, and mindset and performance coaching, and how he got to be where he is today (6:35) · A common misconception about mental health and how we can overcome it (11:11) · His personal why/mission statement and how he is living it out (12:59) · The mentors who most influenced him and how they impacted him (16:43) · A defining moment in his life and how it impacted his development (21:08) · Lessons he has learned from sports that he uses in his business and coaching (23:55) · Some of the most common mental obstacles athletes face and how they can overcome them and fulfill their potential (25:54) · Social media and the comparison trap (31:08) · How you can rebuild a healthy mindset in a young athlete (33:38) · His two books, why he wrote them, and what he hopes his readers will get out of them (41:49) · Why parents and coaches also need to be focusing on their mental health as it relates to their children/players' flourishing (49:21) · A couple common mistakes that 98% of parents make during their athletes' journeys (51:32) · A couple mindset hacks that can help you and your athletes dominate in sports and life (57:21) · How he has used lessons learned from sports in his marriage and parenting (1:03:07) · His recommendations (1:05:58) Resources and Links from this Episode · Andrew's Website · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It's Impossible to be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature, by Peter Scazzero · You Win in the Locker Room First: The 7 C's to Build a Winning Team in Business, Sports, and Life, by Jon Gordon and Mike Smith

In Episode 173, Phil and Paul discuss their highlights from the second half of HSEL's Season 12, which included Frank Kelly, Sean Miller, Roman Khripunov, and Paul Caliguiri, as well as some other topics they have been pondering lately. You don't want to miss some great leadership nuggets on vulnerability, perseverance, humility, hard work, integrity, and creativity. If you're loving the show (or if you don't love it ; )), please subscribe, give us your feedback, rate and review the show, and, most importantly, continually learn from the show and use it to help you flourish in everything you do. Resources and Links from this Episode · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training

In Episode 172, Paul Caligiuri, OCFC Manager, US Nat'l Soccer Hall of Famer, Former USMNT defender/midfielder and pro player in US and Germany, one of the first Americans to play professionally in Europe, and the unlikely scorer of the "shot heard 'round the world," talks with Phil and Paul about his remarkable journey from a passionate young soccer enthusiast to a defining figure in U.S. soccer history. He also recounts his serendipitous connection with Phil relating to a World War II era family relic, which you don't want to miss, and some moments from his impressive soccer career, highlighting his passion-filled early years in the game, pivotal moments like his unexpected selection for the Olympic Development Program, which led to his USMNT selection, and an intimate moment he shared with God after scoring the "Shot Heard 'Round the World," which secured the U.S.'s first World Cup qualification in 40 years in 1990. Caligiuri emphasizes the importance of passion, perseverance, and integrity, their influence on his career, and how these values translate into his everyday life and leadership. Paul also touches on key lessons from sports that can be applied in life, the current state of soccer, and the importance of faith in making a meaningful impact. Specifically, Paul C. discusses: · His providential connection with Phil relating to a WWII relic and including a lot of investigation and perseverance (1:52) · How he developed his passion for soccer from humble beginnings and how he ultimately made the USMNT through a very unusual path filled with hard work, dedication, creativity, overcoming hurdles, "feeding his passion," and going above and beyond the "normal" (you don't want to miss this story) (5:45) · His life purpose and "Why" and how he is living it out in his life (34:50) · An intimate defining moment after the "shot heard 'round the world" that might surprise you (36:35) · A special call with his dad that shows how far the game has come in the US (40:48) · Lessons that he has learned from soccer that he uses in his parenting and other important relationships in his life (43:33) · His recommendations (45:21) Resources and Links from this Episode · Paul Caliguiri's website · "The Billion Dollar Goal" (Paramount Plus) · "His goal changed soccer in the USA" (YouTube) · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · "Pulisic" (Paramount Plus) · "Vini Jr." (Netflix) · "Captains" (Netflix)

In Episode 171, Roman Khripunov, Executive Director of Revival Sport and Facilitator for the North American Sport Movement, talks with Phil and Paul about his incredible journey from Uzbekistan to the United States, navigating the challenges of being a refugee and how he developed his passion for using soccer as a tool for ministry and community building. Roman shares personal stories of coaching, breaking down cultural barriers, and the impact of vulnerability and discipleship. The conversation covers the powerful role of sports in uniting diverse communities, particularly in the context of the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games. He also talks about the importance of having a short memory, knowing your role, and celebrating small victories. Phil also talks about a loss in his life and the importance of being vulnerable and allowing other people into your life and trials. Specifically, Roman discusses: · His Journey from Uzbekistan to Russia to the US with his family as a 12-year-old refugee, and some important lessons he learned along the way (9:41) · The humble beginnings of Cup of Nations and Revival Sport, and how they were birthed out of a love for the "sojourners" in Houston (19:22) · The plight of refugees and how you can help (23:23) · Roman's life purpose and how he is living it out (28:18) · How Roman when into ministry despite not wanting to (32:27) · The Nations United initiative, why the World Cup and Olympics provide massive opportunities for the Church in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and strategies we all can use to connect with people different from us (35:52) · Defining moments in his soccer journey and the lessons learned from them (47:22) · An important lesson learned through failure (54:18) · Information about the Global and North American Sport Movements (57:38) · How he has used lessons learned from soccer in marriage and parenting (1:00:24) · Recommendations (1:06:33) Resources and Links from this Episode · Revival Sport Website · Global Sport Movement website · North American Sport Movement website · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · "All or Nothing: Manchester City" (Amazon Prime) · Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

In Episode 170, Sean Miller, founder of Upper 90 HQ, talks with Phil and Paul about his entrepreneurial journey that started with filming soccer games, leading to the creation of his video company that serves soccer teams and players around the US. Sean dives into his personal story, emphasizing how faith and soccer have influenced his leadership and shift in life priorities. He discusses the challenges and opportunities within the US soccer landscape, drawing from his family's extensive involvement in the sport. The discussion also covers Sean's leadership principles, his defining moments in soccer, and how the game has shaped his approach to marriage and parenting. Specifically, Sean discusses: · His story, his passion for soccer, leadership, entrepreneurship, and how he started Upper 90 HQ (6:54) · His personal why/life purpose and how he is living it out (15:43) · How he has used lessons learned in soccer in his business life (20:15) · The power of vulnerability (27:05) · Lessons he has learned from a couple defining moments in his soccer career (33:03) · His thoughts on the current state of soccer in the US, from the youth to professional ranks, from the "Alphabet Soup" to the "Merry-Go-Round" (40:17) · Lessons learned from soccer that he is using in his marriage and parenting (55:28) · His recommendations (57:47) Resources and Links from this Episode · Upper90HQ Website · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · "Adolescence" (Netflix Series) · "The Chosen" · "House of David" · Act Like Be a Man: 9 Ways to Punch Life in the Mouth, Mark Driscoll

In Episode 169, Frank Kelly, CEO of Kelly Benefits, Former Cornell Lacrosse and Football player, and Author of Influence and the Creator's Game, talks with Phil and Paul about his extensive experience in sports, business, leadership, and ministry, and how his faith journey has deeply impacted all facets of his life. Frank shares personal stories from his athletic journey, his involvement with FCA, the concept of playing sports to please the Creator, and how sports can integrate with faith to influence lives for eternity. He also discusses how the principles and lessons learned from sports are applied in his family business, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and values. Listeners will gain insights into using sports to make disciples, developing a mission-driven business, and integrating faith into various aspects of life. Specifically, Frank discusses: · His sports, business, and faith journey (4:00) · A story from his not-so-extensive soccer coaching experience (13:35) · His personal "why" and life purpose, and how he is living it out (17:40) · The story behind his book, Influence and the Creator's Game and the concept of a "Praise Performance" (22:07) · The only thing that matters (27:17) · Impacting lives through lacrosse (29:52) · An incredible story about God's Providence (35:22) · Lessons from lacrosse and other sports that he uses in his business (40:30) · Impactful coaches and mentors in his life (51:35) · Lessons from sport that he has used in his marriage and parenting (54:22) · His recommended books (56:31) Resources and Links from this Episode · Influence and the Creator's Game, Frank Kelly III · Frank Kelly III's website · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · The Hard Hat: 21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate, Jon Gordon · The Secret: How to Live with Purpose and Power, Bill Bright

In Episode 168, Phil and Paul discuss their highlights from the first half of HSEL's Season 12, as well as some personal and professional updates. They talk about their conversations with Wells Thompson, Don Williams, and Brad Kenney, as well as their "Extra Time" episode, delving into topics like vulnerability, what it takes to become a pro athlete, navigating the changing college soccer landscape, prioritizing family values and player development, and the importance of life beyond the game. If you're loving the show (or if you don't love it ; )), please to subscribe, give us your feedback, rate and review the show, and, most importantly, continually learn from the show and use it to help you flourish in everything you do. Resources and Links from this Episode · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · The Soccer Psalms, Brad Kenney

In Episode 167, we are recasting our interview with Pete Kipley, Founder of Bolta Soccer, Music Producer and Songwriter, in which he talks with Phil about his journey from being a music producer to opening a soccer training facility in Nashville. He discusses the similarities between the music and soccer worlds, emphasizing the importance of mentality, culture, and leadership in both fields. Pete also talks about his philosophy at Bolta, focusing on curating quality trainers, creating opportunities, and connecting players with the right resources. The conversation delves into parenting, motivating young athletes, and the impact of COVID-19 on youth sports. Pete concludes with reflections on the qualities of effective coaches and the far-reaching implications of lessons from soccer on parenting and life. Specifically, he discusses: · His story of how soccer and leadership have influenced his life and how he ended up leaving the music industry to start an indoor facility. · His philosophy at Bolta Soccer and how they are curating, creating, and connecting in their development of trainers and players in their community · How breaking into and advancing in the music industry and the soccer world involve many of the same things · How the college soccer recruiting process prepares athletes for the world outside of soccer · What Pete has learned from the game of soccer as a man who has only recently fallen in love with the beautiful game, particularly what he has learned about the mental side of the game · The dangers and negative impact of parents, coaches, and other leaders micromanaging and pressuring the people they're leading, and why it is critical to foster an environment allowing for a freedom to fail · How to deal with failure and "bad balls" in soccer and life · The importance of teamwork and teammates covering for each other · The common threads that Pete has seen in the best soccer coaches he has worked with in his life · Principles from soccer that he applies in his marriage and parenting in his home (and Pete gets really philosophical on this one) · Resources that Pete recommends to us Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode Video of this episode Bolta Soccer website Warrior Way Soccer Phil's email for DISC training "All or Nothing: Manchester City" – Amazon Prime "All or Nothing: Tottenham" – Amazon Prime "Ted Lasso" – Apple TV "Take Us Home: Leeds United" – Amazon Prime

In Episode 166 of How Soccer Explains Leadership, hosts Phil Darke and Paul Jobson discuss the intersection of youth soccer, leadership, priorities, and family values. Through personal and professional experience, they address the importance of aligning family priorities with athletic commitments. They emphasize the benefits of learning from losses, balancing sports and family life, and enabling kids to navigate conversations with coaches. The episode also explores the use of video cameras at young ages, impact of extensive travel for youth tournaments, and the pressures on young athletes. Specifically, they discuss: 03:40 Priorities in Youth Sports 07:03 Core family values and their role in commitment decisions 10:11 The role of sports in personal development 14:24 Balancing family and sports commitments 28:02 The importance of losing and learning 29:55 Facing adversity in sports and life 31:01 The importance of team camaraderie 32:42 Is extensive travel in youth sport necessary and advisable? 33:48 Balancing individual and team goals 34:57 Parental involvement and athlete development 39:10 The impact of over-scheduling on youth athletes 49:29 Encouraging self-advocacy in young athletes and relationship nurturing with your young athletes Resources and Links from this Episode · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training

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 · Uncut Video of the Episode · HSEL Facebook Group · Warrior Way Soccer · Coaching the Bigger Game Program · Phil's email for DISC Training · Cloud and Townsend website · Patrick Lencioni (The Table Group) website