From Glenwood alum to head coach, Mike Garber shares how a mentor’s relentless positivity shaped his coaching, why he treats the classroom like five daily “shows,” and how he helps athletes do what they never thought possible.

🧠 Mindset shift: from “have to” → “get to”

🦸 Mentors & modeling: Coach Mike Johnson’s lasting impact

🏫 Teaching first: tech in the classroom, FCA, and lifelong learning

🔁 The four stages of coaching: eager → intoxicated → sober → serene

🧩 Building staff & culture: assistants, clarity, and service

🏃 Program roots: returning home to Glenwood and staying for the long haul

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family balance: gratitude for a spouse who makes it possible

🔮 What’s next at Glenwood: belief, confidence, and unlocking ceilings

“I was called to be here. This is my calling.” — Mike Garber

🌟 Explore Our Library: Dive into 300+ episodes featuring insights from coaching legends such as Boo Schexnayder and Dan Pfaff, Diljeet Taylor (BYU) and Beth Alford-Sullivan, as well as superstar coaches Petros Kyprianou (Illinois), Althea Thomas (Vanderbilt) and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure.

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📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍