How I Lead as a Coach and a Catholic | An Interview with Frank Layden

Jul 17, 2025

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This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in September 2019.

Frank Layden was a beloved basketball coach and executive best known for his time with the Utah Jazz. While he achieved tremendous professional success—earning NBA Coach of the Year, Executive of the Year, and the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award all in 1984—it was his warmth, humor, and larger-than-life personality that truly defined him. Known for his self-deprecating wit and quick one-liners, Layden brought levity to the game and was deeply respected by players, colleagues, and fans alike.

Beyond basketball, Layden was cherished for his kindness, community involvement, and ability to connect with people on a personal level. He had a gift for making others feel valued, often using laughter to lift those around him. Even in retirement, he remained a vibrant part of the Salt Lake City community. Frank Layden passed away on July 9, 2025, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and compassion.

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Highlights

Early Experiences & Utah Transition
00:03:34 Involvement with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; reflections on what President Thomas S. Monson said about him
00:05:24 How he ended up in Utah with the Jazz
00:09:03 First knowledge of and interactions with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
00:10:15 Approach to sports and Utah’s culture: “What can we do to help here?” Focused on building relationships over highlighting differences.

Personal and Professional Philosophy
00:12:44 How he became a coach
– Belief that his family was meant to be in Utah
– Building the Jazz from a losing team into a contender
– Perspective on success: You won’t always succeed, and shouldn’t measure success by money. Prioritize doing what you love and service.
00:17:48 The Jazz’s efforts to help players and their families grow off the court:
– Wives club activities: fashion shows, making Christmas trees, supporting education
– Interfaith chapel service with Rev. France Davis and Pastor Jerry Lewis
– Bonuses for players who finished college degrees

Leadership & Team Management
00:20:10 When players feel coaches support them, they give their all.
00:22:37 Emphasis on making each player feel loved; daily question: “What can I do for you today?”
00:24:58 The importance of small things: punctuality, readiness, balancing authority and discipline
00:28:20 Players must believe in you, and you must believe in yourself.
– Understanding who needs motivation vs. encouragement
00:32:47 Establishing leadership: the team must know who leads
– “Winning is not a sometimes thing; it starts the first day of practice.”

Relationship-Building & Daily Culture
00:39:42 Building one-on-one connections with players
– Creating comfort for players to approach leadership
– Listening to them (examples include book club and shared reading)
– Encouraging professional appearance
– Mutual respect and adult treatment fosters loyalty
00:42:50 Players can sense if you enjoy your job.

Reflection on Faith & Community
00:48:22 How being part of Utah’s religious community enhanced his experience as a Catholic

00:53:04 Takeaways and Leadership Principles

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