

The Daily Coach
The Daily Coach
Founded in 2019 by Michael Lombardi, a three-time Super Bowl-winning NFL executive and UNC Football’s General Manager, and George Raveling, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, The Daily Coach was born from a fundamental belief: the most important person we will ever lead is ourselves, and that everyone deserves to have a great coach.
The Daily Coach stands as the singular newsletter and community of its kind globally, seamlessly intertwining impactful stories, strategies, and inspiration from both the arenas of sports and business to empower leaders at every level.
The Daily Coach stands as the singular newsletter and community of its kind globally, seamlessly intertwining impactful stories, strategies, and inspiration from both the arenas of sports and business to empower leaders at every level.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 1, 2025 • 3min
Build Character, Not Just a Brand
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore why true leadership isn’t built on brand—but on character.In a world obsessed with image, it’s easy to chase attention. But lasting leadership is rooted in personal growth, humility, empathy, and resilience. Success may bring visibility, but character sustains trust, builds loyalty, and creates impact that endures beyond the spotlight.This episode challenges us to build more than a brand—to build a legacy anchored in who we are, not just how we appear.Lastly, we’re inviting your feedback on this new audio initiative. Do you prefer multiple stories in one episode each week,or shorter, single-story episodes each day? Share your thoughts in the episode’s comments or message us directly at newsletter@thedaily.coach.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 30, 2025 • 3min
The Change Department: What Steve Jobs Taught Us About Growth
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the resistance to change—even from the most innovative minds—and the power of building a “change department” in our lives and teams.Even Steve Jobs resisted integrating music into the iPhone. He couldn’t initially see beyond his vision of a better phone. But what made him different was this: he built a culture where people could challenge ideas, think freely, and push boundaries.This episode challenges us to rethink how we respond to change—and reminds us that innovation starts by welcoming voices that help us see what we can’t yet imagine.Lastly, we’re inviting your feedback on this new audio initiative. Do you prefer multiple stories in one episode each week, or shorter, single-story episodes each day? Share your thoughts in the episode’s comments or message us directly at newsletter@thedaily.coach.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 29, 2025 • 3min
Coach John Wooden’s Approach to Team Standards
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the truth about standards, fairness, and what great leadership really demands.At UCLA in the 1970s, Coach John Wooden didn’t hold everyone to the same rules. When questioned, his response was clear: “I don’t have a double standard. I have 12 different standards—one for each player.” He understood that leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about knowing your people, their roles, and what brings out their best.This episode challenges the myth of uniformity—and reminds us that real leadership is personalized, principled, and rooted in purpose.Lastly, we’re inviting your feedback on this new audio initiative. Do you prefer multiple stories in one episode each week, or shorter, single-story episodes each day? Share your thoughts in the episode’s comments or message us directly at newsletter@thedaily.coach.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 28, 2025 • 4min
Leading the Elephant and the Rider: The Real Key to Change
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore why lasting change is hard—and how to lead both logic and emotion.Using the powerful “Elephant and the Rider” analogy, we break down how our rational mind (the rider) and emotional drive (the elephant) often pull in different directions. Real transformation begins when we guide both—providing clear direction, emotional motivation, and the right environment for growth.This episode challenges us to lead ourselves and others with both structure and heart—because true change honors both the rider and the elephant.Lastly, we’re inviting your feedback on this new audio initiative. Do you prefer multiple stories in one episode each week, or shorter, single-story episodes each day? Share your thoughts in the episode’s comments or message us directly at newsletter@thedaily.coach.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 24, 2025 • 3min
The Heart That Listens: Leadership in a Noisy World
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the overlooked art of listening—and how it shapes the way we lead, connect, and grow.First, we reflect on why listening is more than a skill—it’s a sign of respect. In a world filled with noise and constant opinion, true listening allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, challenge our perspectives, and gain insight we would otherwise miss.Next, we examine why the best leaders talk less and ask more. They aren’t seeking to impress—they’re seeking to understand. Real listening, after all, doesn’t just help us hear others—it helps us hear ourselves more clearly too.This episode challenges us to listen not just with our ears, but with intention and empathy—because sometimes the greatest gift we can offer isn’t advice or a solution, but the presence of a heart that truly hears.We’re inviting your feedback on this very audio initiative. Is the length right? Do you find single-story episodes more valuable? Let us know through the polls, the comment section, by replying to our newsletter, or by emailing us at newsletter@thedaily.coach — we’re listening, and we’re building this with you in mind.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 23, 2025 • 4min
Invest in You: Skill, Generosity & Leadership in Tough Times
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the value of personal development, skill-building, and leading through uncertain times.First, we revisit timeless wisdom from Warren Buffett, who reminds us that in times of inflation and uncertainty, the best protection isn’t found in the market—it’s found in ourselves. By sharpening our skills and becoming exceptional at what we do, we create enduring value that no economic trend can take away.Next, we examine the leadership power of sharing knowledge. When we give away our experience, we build trust, deepen relationships, and set the tone for a culture of learning. As American philosopher William James said, “Leaders who don’t share information are not leaders.”This episode challenges us to invest in our growth, elevate those around us, and lead not just through strategy—but through generosity, clarity, and continual skill-building.We’re inviting your feedback on this very audio initiative. Is the length right? Do you find single-story episodes more valuable? Let us know through the polls, the comment section, by replying to our newsletter, or by emailing us at newsletter@thedaily.coach — we’re listening, and we’re building this with you in mind.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 22, 2025 • 3min
Actions Over Words: What Real Leadership Looks Like
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the true essence of leadership in a world full of noise, promises, and pressure.In an age where words are everywhere, it’s easy to forget that action is what separates those who inspire from those who simply talk. Real leadership is revealed not by what’s said, but by what’s done—especially when no one is watching, when adversity hits, and the path forward is unclear. As motivational speaker Inky Johnson puts it, “Watch a person’s example in spite of what they say.” True leaders align their words, choices, and character on the same frequency. This episode challenges us to close the gap between intention and execution—to lead lives where our actions are the loudest thing in the room, and our presence becomes the proof of what we value most.Next, we’re inviting your feedback on this very audio initiative. Is the length right? Do you find single-story episodes more valuable? Let us know through the polls, the comment section, by replying to our newsletter, or by emailing us at newsletter@thedaily.coach — we’re listening, and we’re building this with you in mind.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

Apr 21, 2025 • 3min
Use the Difficulty: A Mindset for Turning Setbacks Into Strength
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the power of mindset, perspective, and turning adversity into advantage.First, we share a timeless story from two-time Oscar winner Sir Michael Caine, who learned an invaluable lesson early in his career: “Use the difficulty.” Whether it’s drama or comedy, leadership or life—every obstacle presents a creative opportunity. His simple three-word mantra became a lifelong guiding principle, helping him reframe setbacks as openings for growth.This episode challenges us to reframe challenges not as blocks, but as breakthroughs—and to lead with the mindset that even difficulty holds hidden potential.Next, we’re inviting your feedback on this very audio initiative. Is the length right? Do you find single-story episodes more valuable? Let us know through the polls, the comment section, by replying to our newsletter, or by emailing us at newsletter@thedaily.coach — we’re listening, and we’re building this with you in mind.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.

16 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 11min
Lead With Less: Clarity, Compassion & the Gift of Stillness
Dive into the intriguing world of decision fatigue, where even choosing ice cream can be overwhelming. Discover how structured routines can enhance your decision-making prowess. Mental fitness is explored, emphasizing self-awareness and compassion as keys to effective leadership. Unpack the importance of fostering genuine connections between leaders and their teams. Finally, embrace the value of stillness and self-discovery, reminding us that true leadership begins with understanding ourselves.

Apr 8, 2025 • 14min
From Pain to Presence: Lessons in Reinvention, Reframing & Real Connection
In this episode of The Daily Coach newsletter in audio form, we explore the power of reinvention, reframing our mindset, and leading with vulnerability and heart.First, Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn turns a painful firing into a profound opportunity for reinvention. His journey reminds us that setbacks—when approached with humility and reflection—can spark growth, resilience, and renewed purpose.Next, we pause to reflect inwardly with the simple yet profound question: How’s your soul? Through the lens ofreframing, we’re reminded that while we can’t always control circumstances, we can always choose how we respond—with trust, clarity, and intention.Then, we examine the idea of territory through the lens of artists like Robert Caro, Bruce Springsteen, and Pablo Picasso. Their devotion to the craft reveals that greatness isn’t about hierarchy—it’s about showing up, day after day, for the love of the work itself.Finally, South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer delivers a heartfelt locker room serenade to his wife—modeling the strength of vulnerability, the joy of connection, and the power of appreciating those who make our journey possible.This episode challenges us to rethink our pain, our presence, and our purpose—and to lead from a place of clarity, authenticity, and deep connection.Not yet subscribed to The Daily Coach newsletter? Join thousands of leaders who receive The Daily Coach every day—for free. Sign up today at www.thedaily.coach/subscribe.Remember: The most important person you will ever lead is yourself. Keep growing. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up.