Standards Over Scoreboards: The Real Work of Culture Change with Coach Jeff Choate

Coach Jeff Choate is one of the most respected minds in college football — known for his passion, authenticity, and leadership on and off the field. With a coaching journey that spans powerhouse programs like Florida, Washington, Boise State, Texas, and now as head coach at Nevada, he’s helped shape championship-level culture at every stop. In this conversation, Coach Choate pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to build trust, demand excellence, and develop high-character athletes in today’s complex coaching landscape. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or leader — this episode is a masterclass in coaching beyond the scoreboard.

Journal Reflection Questions

1. How can you simplify your communication and teaching approach?
Reflect on areas where you might be overcomplicating concepts for your team. Jeff emphasized that the average attention span of young people is 7-15 seconds, and coaches often make things more complex than necessary. Consider how you can break down your most important messages into simpler, more digestible pieces.

2. What does authenticity look like in your leadership, and where might you be holding back from being vulnerable?

3. How do you balance maintaining high standards with showing compassion during difficult conversations?**
Jeff discussed the challenge of having tough conversations, including firing people, while still being compassionate. Reflect on your approach to difficult conversations - how do you "rip the band-aid off" while still considering the individual's needs and the greater good of the organization?

4. What personal mission statement guides your coaching, and how does it show up in your daily interactions?

5. How are you developing the whole person, not just the athlete or performer?
Jeff outlined his four-part development approach: tactical, technical, physical, and psychological. The psychological piece - helping young people establish values that become their life compass - was his primary responsibility. Reflect on how you're contributing to character development and preparing your people for life beyond their current role.

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