

Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Keith Grabowski
Keith Grabowski interviews the most knowledgeable head coaches, coordinators, and position coaches from professional, college, and high school football. Keith and his guests discuss the philosophy, concepts, schemes, and strategies that they have learned throughout their careers. Each show includes a specific idea that can be applied to help coaches at every level find the winning edge.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 23, 2025 • 40min
The Art of Practice - The New Frontier in Play Calling - Drew Robinson, Go Rout
In this episode of The Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski discusses the innovative GoRout technology now approved in Texas with Drew Robinson, focusing on its impact on in-game communication and coaching efficiency. They explore the differences between GoRout Scout and Gridiron, the recent changes in Texas UIL regulations, and the strategic advantages this technology offers to both offensive and defensive teams. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to new technologies in football and how GoRout is paving the way for a more efficient coaching experience.
Chapters
Introduction to GoRoute Technology
Understanding GoRoute Scout and Gridiron
The Evolution of In-Game Communication
Texas UIL's Forward-Thinking Approach
Game Day Setup and Operations
Strategic Implications of GoRoute Technology
Defensive Adaptations and Leveling the Playing Field
Get the Game-Changing GoRout Gridiron:
Texas high school football coaches: Digital wristbands are now approved for play calling purposes in-game for the 2025 season. Last year, GoRout Gridiron became the only wearable solution to ever be used for a full season of play in the NCAA. It allows coaches to instantly send plays to their players' devices with no huddles, no confusion, and no delays. Gridiron meets all UIL guidelines and keeps your team moving faster and playing smarter.
Sign up using code “coordinator” for 25% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast.
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May 21, 2025 • 38min
Culture OS - Lead Where You Are – Jason Eck, Head Coach, New Mexico
In this episode of CultureOS presented by Story of the Season, Coach Jason Eck opens up about his journey from being a player to becoming a head coach, sharing valuable lessons he's learned along the way. He dives deep into his coaching philosophy, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, personal growth, and the deeper purpose of player development beyond the game itself. Coach Eck sheds light on how building strong relationships and cultivating a positive, accountable team culture are essential for long-term success. He also reflects on the challenges of stepping into a new environment, the process of assessing team dynamics, setting clear goals, and the ongoing effort required to lead with integrity and earn trust.
Chapters
The Journey of Coach Jason Eck
Coaching Philosophy and Player Development
Assessing and Building Team Culture
Goals and Expectations for the Season
Challenges of Building and Sustaining Success
Get the highlights of Season 1 of CultureOS in our free ebook, and learn more about our partner Story of the Season and what they do to help bring your culture to life for your entire community.
Get it here:
https://coachandcoordinatornetwork.com/cultureos
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May 20, 2025 • 12min
Next Move - Are You Filming Your Coaching? Caleb Collins, Assistant Coach, Detroit Lions
Caleb Collins, Assistant Coach for the Detroit Lions, discusses the impactful practice of filming oneself while coaching. He emphasizes how this technique not only fosters self-improvement but also enhances career opportunities. Collins shares personal stories and practical advice on using video for feedback, refining coaching methods, and standing out in a competitive landscape. He highlights the importance of self-evaluation and technology in developing communication skills and preparing for future leadership roles in coaching.

May 16, 2025 • 38min
Champions - Installation Strategies - Mark Spader, John Merritt, and John Hart
In this episode of Champions presented by Signature Championship Rings, three state champion coaches discuss their strategies for installing their systems during the spring and summer months. They emphasize the importance of off-season preparation, efficient practice structures, and the need to accommodate multi-sport athletes.
Each coach shares insights into their philosophies and methods for maximizing participation and effectiveness in training, while also developing a supportive culture for their players.
Our Champions:
Mark Spader
Bowling Green Purples
2024 Kentucky Class 5A State Champion
X: @PurplesFootball
John Hart
Brownsburg Bulldogs
2024 Indiana Class 6A State Champion
X: @BHSdogsfootball
John Merritt
De Smet Jesuit Spartans
2024 Missouri Class 6 State Champion
X: @JHMerrittJr
Chapters
Introduction to Installation Strategies
Coaching Backgrounds and Success Stories
Philosophy of Installation in Spring and Summer
Maximizing Practice Efficiency and Participation
Managing Multi-Sport Athletes
Building a Supportive Culture for Athletes
Navigating Coaching Challenges
Embracing Technology in Coaching
Key Insights for Successful Installations
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.
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May 15, 2025 • 41min
Instilling Poise and Composure in Players – Brandon Blackmon, Defensive Coordinator, Delaware State
In this episode of The Coaching Coordinator Podcast, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Delaware State Defensive Coordinator Brandon Blackman for an insightful conversation on leadership, mentorship, and building a championship-caliber defense. Coach Blackmon reflects on the lessons learned from his mentors and the principles that guide his coaching style—emphasizing poise, trust, and accountability both on and off the field.
Coach Blackmon dives into developing a strong defensive identity, creating meaningful player relationships, and mastering situational football.
Chapters
Introduction to Coach Brandon Blackmon
Influences and Mentorship in Coaching
Instilling Poise and Composure in Players
Building Trust and Accountability
Creating a Strong Defensive Identity
Collaboration with Head Coach Jackson
Understanding Offensive Dynamics
The Importance of Situational Football
Focusing on the Process for Success
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May 12, 2025 • 7min
Next Move - The Habits of Coaches Who Get Promoted - Deon Broomfield, Passing Game Coordinator/Safeties Coach, Iowa State
In this installment of The Next Move presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski and Deon Broomfield, Passing Game Coordinator/Safeties Coach for Iowa State, discuss the essential habits coaches need to develop to get promoted in their careers. They emphasize the importance of initiative, relationship-building, continuous learning, and readiness for new opportunities. Broomfield shares a success story of Taylor Mouser, who exemplified these habits and advanced his career through hard work and dedication.
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Related:
Teachable Moments – Taylor Mouser, Iowa State
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May 8, 2025 • 14min
Your Call - Player-First Leadership - Dave Mastroianni, Leadership Coach, New Canann HS (CT)
On this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Dave Mastroianni, assistant coach and leadership coordinator at New Canaan High School, discusses the evolution of leadership strategies in athletic programs, shifting from traditional teaching methods to a player-driven model. He prioritizes emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and real-world problem-solving, recognizing the unique developmental needs of athletes aged 14 to 18. Mastroianni emphasizes the significance of understanding players' personal challenges and fostering open communication through weekly leadership council meetings. This adaptable approach has led to a supportive team culture, focused on mental well-being and accountability, and has resulted in the New Canaan football team winning three state championships. The program cultivates diverse leadership styles among athletes while preparing them for challenges on and off the field, signaling a promising future for character development and leadership growth.
Support our Partner: The Headset App
The Head Set App – A Game-Changer for Coaches
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May 7, 2025 • 16min
Clinic Series - Designing a Defensive Blueprint for Winning Possessions - Ilaisa Tuiaki, Defensive Line Coach, Oregon State
In this Clinic Series episode from Lauren’s First and Goal, we’re joined by Oregon State Defensive Line Coach Ilaisa Tuiaki, who delivers a data-driven breakdown on how to build a defense that disrupts offensive rhythm, limits points, and takes back possession.
Drawing from both offensive and defensive experience, Coach Tuiaki shares how concepts like Down Series Success Rate (DSSR), third-down creation, and explosive play prevention can reshape defensive strategy. His unique approach reverse-engineers offensive analytics to maximize impact on the scoreboard and field position.
This episode is just a segment of his full clinic talk—available as part of our 120+ speaker virtual clinic series on CoachTube.
Key Takeaways
Why possession and points are the two most important defensive goals
The role of DSSR (Down Series Success Rate) in defensive planning
How to reverse-tool offensive analytics to create smarter calls
The importance of third-down creation and explosive play prevention
Why some high-sack teams actually underperform in scoring defense
Watch the Full Talk:
Full clinic session available on CoachTube here Or purchase the full 120+ speaker clinic for year-round access
About our Partner, Modern Football Technology
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.
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May 6, 2025 • 47min
Champions - Tom Lombardo and CJ Cesario on Culture, Depth, and Reps
In this episode of Champions presented by Signature Championship Rings, coaches Tom Lombardo and CJ Cesario discuss the intricacies of player development in high school football, emphasizing the importance of developing players as individuals first. They share their unique perspectives based on their experiences at different school sizes and divisions, exploring how to manage player reps, practice logistics, and the balance between player safety and effective training. The conversation highlights the significance of having a clear mission statement for a football program and the need for accountability, teamwork, and personal growth within the sport.
Head Coach, St. Edward High School (Lakewood, OH) Tom Lombardo is a six-time state champion and one of Ohio’s most respected high school football coaches. He leads the powerhouse program at St. Edward High School, a Catholic institution in the Holy Cross tradition located just outside Cleveland. Under his leadership, St. Edward has become a model of sustained excellence in Ohio’s highest classification, consistently developing elite players and fielding one of the deepest rosters in the state. Lombardo emphasizes holistic development, balancing physical preparation with values like accountability, brotherhood, servant leadership, and faith. His approach blends measurable athletic development with deep investment in character-building and culture.
Head Coach, Chicago Christian High School (Palos Heights, IL) CJ Cesario led Chicago Christian High School to a state championship in his first season as head coach, an impressive feat in Illinois' 2A division. With a roster of just 35 players, Cesario has built a program centered on developing both elite football players and strong, authentic men. In addition to coaching, he serves as the school’s Director of Admission, playing a key role in student recruitment and shaping school culture. His philosophy emphasizes person-first development, intentional culture-building, and maximizing every rep in practice through efficient, high-impact training. Cesario’s leadership and attention to detail have made him a rising figure in the coaching profession.
Chapters
Introduction to Coaching Perspectives
Philosophy of Player Development
Developing the Person First
Practical Approaches to Player Development
Balancing Practice and Player Safety
Measuring Player Performance
Building Team Depth and Player Roles
Navigating Player Development and Parental Influence
Maximizing Practice Efficiency
Creating Synergy Among Coaching Staff
Balancing Player Workload and Recovery
Annual Development Process for Players and Coaches
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.
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May 4, 2025 • 8min
Next Move - Handling the Unexpected Opportunity - Josh Crawford, Running Backs Coach, Bowling Green State
In this installment of The Next Move Powered by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski and Josh Crawford, Bowling Green State's running backs coach, discuss how to handle unexpected job opportunities in coaching. They emphasize the importance of professionalism, being prepared, and consulting with mentors. Coach Crawford shares personal experiences and tips for evaluating opportunities, maintaining faith, and ensuring family support during career transitions.
Take Control of Your Coaching Career
Ready to position yourself for the next opportunity?
Upload your resume
Build a searchable profile
Get real-time alerts on job movement
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