The Threshold Lab

Some teams are overflowing with talent yet never reach their ceiling. S today's episode explores John Maxwell’s “Law of the Lid” principle and how a leader’s personal growth directly shapes the ceiling of their team’s potential. Through stories like Mike Norvell’s developmental approach at Memphis University and coaching trees from legends like Tara VanDerveer and Nick Saban, we break down how leaders either raise or restrict the impact of those around them. For more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/

Discover how Sam Brannan became the Gold Rush’s first millionaire by selling supplies instead of mining. Learn about leveraging opportunities instead of just working harder. Explore the power of anticipation as a key to separating elite performers from the rest. Gain insights on creating systems that provide lasting advantages. This insightful discussion provides practical tools for coaches and leaders, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and strategic foresight. Slow down, see what others miss, and find your hidden leverage!

What do you do when your team is struggling? Discover how focusing on individual relationships can reshape a team's culture. Zach shares the heartwarming story of Operation Starfish, emphasizing the power of small, meaningful actions. He dives into the Diamondbacks' challenging season and reveals strategies from an NBA staff's relationship audit. Learn how one-on-one investment in players can restore belief and purpose, ultimately transforming adversity into opportunity for growth.

Explore the concept of defensive visualization, which prepares you for pressure and adversity rather than just success. Discover how MLB pitchers can falter without visualizing high-pressure scenarios. Learn about the signal light framework that helps athletes recognize mental shifts and respond effectively. This insightful discussion encourages coaches to teach athletes not only to anticipate achievements but also to rehearse composure in the face of challenges. It’s a powerful reminder that true calm is cultivated in chaos.

Today’s episode explores a valuable mental model for high performers called “the map is not the territory.” From GPS detours to in-game adjustments, this episode unpacks the art of staying aware, updating your plan in real time and leading with confident flexibility when reality refuses to follow the script. For more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/

Every performer faces storms, but knowing how to drop your anchor is key. Personal strengths serve as that anchor, offering stability during challenges. Instead of fixating on weaknesses, it's crucial to lean into what you do best. Zach shares insightful discussions that reveal reliable skills that ground individuals. He emphasizes the importance of routines and healthy effort in steadying performance. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to identify and trust their anchors to navigate turbulent times.

Ever feel stuck like a parked car waiting for GPS signals? Discover how taking action is essential for clarity and direction. Embrace movement and experiment to unveil your true passions. Don’t let perfection paralyze you; small steps and adjustments can lead to progress. Learn the importance of flexibility and curiosity in planning, and treat setbacks as minor bumps in the road. Reflective prompts help identify meaningful next steps. Get ready to steer your life in the right direction!

Sharing and receiving the truth might be the hardest (and most important) part of a team's culture. Inspired by the movie,The Matrix, and Buzz Williams’ “red pill” principle at Texas A&M, this episode dives into what it means to choose the honest reality over comfort in your team or organization. We also highlight Kevin Eastman's 3 components of the truth: Live it, tell it, and take it. For more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/

When Becky Burleigh took over the brand-new Florida Gators women’s soccer program at just 26 years old, there was no history to inherit, she had to build it. Three years later, she delivered a national championship.Across 26 seasons at the University of Florida, Coach Burleigh became one of the winningest coaches in college soccer history. She amassed 513 career wins, 14 SEC regular-season titles, 12 SEC Tournament championships, 22 NCAA appearances, and a 2024 induction into the Florida Athletics Hall of Fame.But Becky’s impact goes well beyond the sideline. She co-founded What Drives Winning, teaches a master’s course she created at the University of Florida on character, team dynamics, and self-awareness, she continues to consult with coaches and she's committed to creating a community for coaches to learn and grow together.Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:[5:27] — Two Words That Defined Her Coaching Experience[11:31] — Coaches Need Career Gameplans[14:11] — Defining Success as a Coach[16:25] — Protecting What Matters[18:50] — Coaching with Freedom[23:21] — Bringing Home "Leftover Energy"[31:44] — The Illusion of Control[35:06] — Becky's Favorite Daily Reminder[37:15] — What Drives Winning Environments[44:50] — Truth-Tellers and Taking Feedback[50:20] — Learning From Stars (Marta, Alex Morgan)[53:48] — Impostor SyndromeMore Resources from Becky:To learn more about Becky's coaching and the What Drives Winning community, feel free to check out their website here: https://whatdriveswinning.com/More Resources from Zach:For more practical tools and mindset stories, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/

In 1999, Kobe Bryant broke his wrist, but showed up early the next morning and completed a workout on the court anyway. This scene offered a valuable lesson to one of his teammates because it highlighted the difference between those who want it from those who work for it. In this episode, we unpack how elite performers (from Kobe Bryant to a Grammy-winning artist) override their brain’s natural pull toward comfort and excuses. For more practical tools and mindset stories like this, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/