
Game Changers with Molly Fletcher Why NFL Coach Sean McVay Almost Walked Away After Winning It All— And the Lesson Leaders Can Learn
Sep 25, 2025
Sean McVay, the Super Bowl-winning head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, shares his journey from championship highs to the brink of retirement at just 36. He reflects on how early success led to a loss of personal perspective and the vital role his family played in his recommitment to coaching. McVay emphasizes leading with authenticity, creating psychological safety, and the importance of resilience and community. He stresses that true leadership is about serving others and valuing connections over accolades.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Create Safety For Brutal Honesty
- Build an environment with truth-tellers and psychological safety where people can fail and speak honestly.
- Listen intentionally and be secure enough to receive feedback even if it challenges your authority.
When Success Made Him Lose Perspective
- After losing the Super Bowl, Sean McVay admitted he lost perspective and told himself winning would finally make him happy.
- That mindset shift contributed to becoming more transactional and pushed him toward near-retirement after later struggles.
A Wife's Tough Love Reignited Him
- Sean considered stepping away from coaching after the difficult seasons following the Super Bowl win.
- His wife Veronica's blunt reaction and impending fatherhood helped him recommit and refocus his leadership purpose.








