Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this episode of Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Nick Holeton, Co-OC/OL Coach at McKendree University, to explore the core principles behind effective player development. Holeton shares how structured practices, player-led growth, and intentional feedback shape his offensive line room into a space of holistic progress. The discussion also highlights the strategic use of technology like GoRout, the power of peer coaching, and how offseason planning sustains long-term development. For coaches seeking to enhance their approach to both teaching and culture, this episode provides practical, field-tested insights. Chapters Defining Development in Offensive Line Coaching Building a Holistic Athlete Practice Structure for Effective Learning Feedback and Self-Correction in Training Meeting Room Strategies for Learning Nurturing Player-Led Development Utilizing Technology for Efficient Practices Advice for Coaches on Player Development Connect on X: @CoachKGrabowski @CoachHoleton Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at ⁠gorout.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Jordan Irsik, Defensive Coordinator at Folsom HS (CA), as he revolutionizes coaching with real-time analytics. He discusses the shift from traditional methods to modern technology, enhancing decision-making during games. Learn how halftime adjustments and tracking unit goals live can sharpen strategies. Jordan also shares insights on balancing pre-game analysis with game-time realities and the benefits of tap-based technology for swift, accurate data input. This conversation is essential for coaches eager to leverage analytics for improved game performance.

Brian Doll, Head Coach at New Trier High School in Illinois, shares his insights on building a winning team culture centered on relationships, mentorship, and community. He discusses the importance of a cohesive team aligned with shared values and how to foster a positive environment that promotes personal growth. Trevor Hudson, a champion coach leading a new program, adds perspectives on leadership and accountability. Together, they reflect on the balance between coaching success and nurturing character, emphasizing how impactful coaching can extend beyond the field.

In this episode of Alert the Post, host Bobby Peters sits down with Coach Kalus Murphy, Safeties coach at North Central College, and dives into the core principles of building an elite defense. With three national championships in five years, North Central's success is no accident — Coach Murphy shares how their defensive strategies are shaped by offensive personnel, the importance of communication against complex formations, and the fundamentals that make tackling drills effective. From the structure of a 4-2-5 over front to the art of block destruction and relentless pursuit, this conversation is packed with insights for coaches looking to elevate their defensive units through technique, trust, and innovation. Chapters Introduction to Coach Kalus Murphy Defensive Strategies and Installations Skill Sets for Defensive Positions Tackling Techniques and Drills Challenges in Defensive Preparation Adjustments in the Run Game Handling Offensive Formations Defensive Schemes and Innovations Final Thoughts and Contact Information Follow on X: ⁠⁠⁠@ b_peters12⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@CoachKGrabowski @Kalus_Murphy ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Resources: ⁠⁠⁠Bobby Peters Amazon Author Page⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Alert the Post Substack⁠⁠⁠ Special offers from our partners: ⁠⁠⁠Coach and Coordinator 10% Toolkit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Call, presented by The Headset App, Coach David Alexander, a former NFL player and seasoned high school football coach in Oklahoma, shares a powerful and unconventional philosophy on building a winning culture. Drawing from his leadership at two underdog programs — including the largest high school in Oklahoma — Coach Alexander explores how shifting from a process-only mindset to embracing the will to win transformed teams, players, and communities. He speaks candidly about the importance of competitive environments, meaningful parent engagement, and reshaping generational attitudes toward losing. This conversation offers coaches a bold perspective on what it truly takes to break cycles of defeat and build legacy-level success. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Journey The Importance Talking About Winning Changing the Mindset: Embracing Competition Engaging Parents and Community The Broader Life Lessons from Sports Connect on X: David Alexander - @DavidAlex72 About the Headset App: Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level. ⁠⁠⁠Download The Headset App today and start coaching smarter⁠⁠⁠! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Next Move presented by Coach Portal, Sacramento State Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Ken Merchant shares practical and powerful insights on how aspiring coaches can position themselves for their next big opportunity. From excelling in your current role to building genuine relationships and proactively taking on new responsibilities, Coach Merchant emphasizes that promotion often comes to those who already act like they have the job. He reflects on key lessons from his own journey, offers strategies for gaining trust and visibility, and reminds coaches that success is built on humility, preparation, and prioritizing the team's needs. Whether you're a GA, position coach, or coordinator, this episode offers actionable advice to help you take that next step. Chapters Positioning for Promotion Building Relationships and Being Yourself Common Mistakes in Seeking Promotion Taking Initiative and Responsibility Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at ⁠⁠coach-portal.com⁠⁠ and make your next move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Champions Series, presented by Signature Championship Rings, we sit down with Wayne Alofipo, HC, Crimson Cliffs HS (UT), Ty Harper, HC, Chautauqua Lake HS (NY), and Dwight Lundeen, HC, Becker HS (MN). The group explores what truly builds a team destined for greatness. The conversation covers everything from personal coaching journeys and philosophies to the vital role of offseason training — especially weightlifting — in athlete development. The coaches highlight the importance of teaching fundamentals, developing collaboration among staff, and adapting to new technologies in sports. More than strategy, they share powerful reflections on coaching their staff as well as their players, mentorship, team culture, and the life lessons that football imparts to young athletes. This episode offers valuable insight into what it takes to lead, inspire, and sustain excellence both on and off the field. Chapters Introduction to the Coaches Coaching Backgrounds and Achievements Offseason Strategies and Team Development Weight Training and Physical Preparation Coaching Philosophy and Staff Development Engaging Players and Building Team Culture Collaborative Coaching and Cultural Development The Importance of Culture in Coaching Embracing Technology in Coaching Creating a Positive Practice Environment Teaching vs. Reteaching: The Importance of Fundamentals The Evolution of Coaching Through Generations Impact Beyond the Game Final Thoughts on Culture and Life Lessons   Learn More about Signature Championship Rings: Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sprint-Based Football presented by Titans Sports, host Tony Holler and Thad Wells dive deep into the philosophy behind sprint-based football and how coaching success is often found in simplicity, balance, and personal growth. Thad shares his evolution from an ambitious young coach to a thoughtful leader shaped by reading, reflection, and hard lessons learned. Together, they discuss the mental and emotional realities of coaching — from navigating identity crises and burnout to building systems that value efficiency over exhaustion. With powerful concepts like "Rock Top vs. Rock Bottom" and “Don’t bring me problems — bring me solutions,” this episode challenges conventional coaching wisdom and advocates for a smarter, more intentional approach to leadership, practice, and life. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy Thad Wells’ Coaching Journey The Importance of Diverse Reading & Book Recommendations Learning from Mistakes & Building Identity Rock Top vs. Rock Bottom: Embracing the Journey Bringing Solutions, Not Problems Balancing Work, Family & Boundaries The Myth of the Overworked Coach & The Discipline of Less Effective Practice & Courageous Decision-Making Communication, Feedback & Coaching Personas Job Security, Coaching Philosophy & Living with No Regrets Learn More About Our Partner: Titan Sports Founded and based in Texas, the Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight.  Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked. https://www.titansensor.com/⁠⁠     Connect on X: Tony Holler ⁠⁠@pntrack⁠⁠ Thad Wells @ThadWells Sprint-Based Football Resources on CoachTube: ⁠⁠Sprint-Based Football Bundle⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Feed the Cats Football Bundle⁠⁠ ⁠⁠TFC Sprint-Based Football⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Rob Stover, defensive coordinator at Sycamore HS (IL), to unpack the strategic art of seven-on-seven football practice. They explore how communication serves as the foundation of defensive cohesion, and how technologies like Go Route are transforming efficiency on the field. Coach Stover shares actionable insights on structuring purposeful walkthroughs, adjusting practice as the season unfolds, and preparing players to respond quickly to opponent tempo. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, delegation, and well-designed drills to create a competitive and organized practice environment. Chapters Using Go Route to Make Periods More Productive Maximizing Communication in Seven on Seven Integrating Technology for Efficiency Effective Walkthroughs and Practice Planning Adjusting Practice as the Season Progresses Understanding Opponent Tempo and Communication Simplifying Calls for Fast Play Advice on Implementing GoRoute Technology Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski is joined by Dean Pauley, Defensive Assistant at the College of DuPage, for a deep dive into coaching strategies that drive practice efficiency—especially when working with a small staff. They explore how flexibility, clear communication, and collaborative planning are essential to building a high-performing football program. Dean shares practical insights on optimizing practice planning, using technology to increase reps, and developing drills with clear objectives. The conversation also highlights the importance of situational football, game-like preparation, and empowering players—particularly defensive backs—to take ownership of their development and communication. Whether you're refining your coaching methods or leading a team with limited resources, this discussion offers valuable tools to enhance player performance and maximize every minute on the field.   Chapters Maximizing Practice with a Small Coaching Staff Setting Expectations for Practice Optimizing Practice Time and Drills Learning from Other Programs Collaborative Practice Planning Group Work and Efficiency Promoting Player Ownership and Communication Training Communication in Defensive Backs Utilizing Technology for Efficiency Practicing Situational Football About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices