Lessons from Sports: Embracing Growth and Connection

On this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of sitting down with two incredible brothers—Pat and Robert McLaughlin. These guys are the real deal. Not only are they heart-driven leaders making a huge impact in their respective fields, but they recently joined us in Orlando at our Day of Development and Jon Gordon Certified events, dove right in, and became Jon Gordon Certified Trainers!

Pat McLaughlin is a serial entrepreneur, chiropractor, business owner, and author. He’s run everything from chiropractic practices to hair salons (yes, you read that right), and his latest passion project is writing and speaking on the power of being present. Robert McLaughlin brings nearly three decades of experience at Chick-fil-A, where he leads with positivity as the head of their Support team, championing a drum-banging culture of recognition and continuous improvement.

In our conversation, we dig into what makes these brothers tick—their shared values, powerful family bonds, and personal journeys through both triumph and tragedy. We talk about leadership lessons from the sports field and the importance of investing in yourself so you can invest more in others. The McLaughlin brothers open up about their commitment to positive leadership and how they’re using their certification to pour into organizations, schools, and communities.

Give it a listen and get ready to bang the drum (you’ll see what I mean)!

Robert McLaughlin serves as Executive Director of Support Now for Chick-fil-A, where he leads a 294-person team dedicated to supporting restaurant operators, team members, and customers nationwide. Since joining the company in 1998, he’s worn many hats—from Field Marketing Consultant to leading major sponsorships like the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, to shaping national brand strategy and new restaurant marketing.

A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill with an MBA from Notre Dame, Robert brings both business acumen and heart to everything he does. Beyond the boardroom, he’s a three-time Ironman triathlete, motivational speaker, proud husband of his high school sweetheart, Holly, and devoted girl dad to two daughters. In this episode, he shares leadership insights, stories from his journey, and what it takes to lead with purpose at one of America’s most beloved brands.

About Pat,

Dr. Patrick (Pat) McLaughlin is a seasoned chiropractor, entrepreneur, author, and speaker on a mission to help people align their lives and become the best version of themselves. Since opening his first practice in 1991, he’s launched seven chiropractic offices and currently runs two successful practices in eastern North Carolina. But his passion for impact doesn’t stop there—he’s also built businesses with Great Clips, Duck Donuts, StayDry Med Centers, and Shape Med Centers, once owning 50 Great Clips salons and ranking among the top franchisees in North America.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Pat is now focused on writing and speaking to empower others. He’s the author of The Bear Facts of Life and the upcoming The Power of Being Present, and serves as a guest lecturer for UNC Chapel Hill’s entrepreneurship program. In this episode, he shares practical wisdom on leadership, personal growth, and what it means to truly live in alignment.

Pat has been married to his wife, Maria, since 1995 and is a proud father of four. When he’s not coaching others, he’s likely spending time with his three dogs, on the golf course, or enjoying live music and sports.

Find them on Instagram @mclaughlinbrothers_

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