

Father’s Day Special: NFL Coach DeLand McCullough’s “Runs in the Family” — A Powerful True Story of a Son Who Discovers His Biological Father Was There All Along, Leading to a Reunion So Incredible It Feels Like a Real-Life Movie.
Jun 15, 2025
Join Super Bowl-winning NFL coach DeLand McCullough as he shares his incredible journey of discovering his biological father, seamlessly blending mentorship and family bonds. His heartfelt narrative reveals how a mentor he admired was actually his dad, reshaping his views on identity and fatherhood. The conversation dives into the significance of familial legacies, the emotional complexities of these revelations, and the lessons he's learned as a father himself. This inspiring story goes beyond football, highlighting the profound connections that define us.
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Coach Turns Out to Be Dad
- DeLand McCullough discovers his biological father, Sherman Smith, was his coach and mentor all along.
- This revelation completes a lifelong search for identity and acceptance with profound impact.
Nature Meets Nurture In Coaching
- The phrase "I'm not your father, but I'll treat you like my son" took on new meaning after DeLand learned Sherm was his real dad.
- Nature and nurture intertwined deeply in their unique father-son relationship and coaching dynamic.
Challenges Shape Success Mindset
- DeLand never resents his challenging childhood; he believes those experiences shaped his character and success.
- He emphasizes gratitude and sees his life's journey as part of a bigger story for God's glory.