Slate Daily Feed How To! | Be a Better Coach (Encore)
Aug 26, 2025
Doug Lemov, author of 'Teach Like a Champion' and 'The Coach’s Guide to Teaching,' joins to help a first-time youth baseball coach, Kelly. They discuss effective coaching strategies that promote fun and equal playing time while managing failures. Lemov emphasizes the importance of balancing rest and conditioning, navigating emotional challenges in youth sports, and the need for supportive coaching styles. Listeners can also gain insights into managing parental involvement and creating an environment that fosters growth and belonging among young athletes.
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New Coach Tries To Do Right
- Kelly volunteered to coach his son's farm ball team despite little experience and a desire not to be a yelling dad.
- He tried to be fair but sometimes lost his temper and shamed players from the dugout.
Start With Why To Avoid Ego
- Doug Lemov stresses asking "why do I want to do this?" before coaching to avoid ego-driven behavior.
- Clarifying purpose prevents ambition from undermining the team's culture.
Balance Minimum Play With Rewards
- Provide a minimum playing time for everyone but reward extra effort with more opportunity.
- Perfect equality isn't fairness; acknowledge hard work and good behavior.
