Welcome to the Contacts Coaching Podcast! In this episode, host welcomes Mark Alabakov, a professional basketball coach from Melbourne, Australia, to share his extensive journey in the world of coaching. Mark discusses his roots in sports, transitioning from a player to coaching at various levels, and the valuable lessons learned from some of Australia's top coaches. He delves into his coaching methodologies, the balance between art and science in coaching, and his commitment to continual learning. Mark also highlights specific strategies he employs to enhance team culture and individual performance, including innovative communication techniques and fostering self-awareness among athletes. With detailed insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports coaching and leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:41 Mark Alabakov's Early Life and Basketball Journey

01:47 Transition to Coaching and Early Coaching Career

02:27 Professional Coaching Career and Achievements

06:42 Skill Development and Coaching Philosophy

13:41 Elite Player Pathways and Training Programs

18:03 Challenges and Insights in Coaching

21:47 Coaching Techniques and Influences

28:56 Mastering the Art and Science of Coaching

30:54 The Art and Science of Coaching

31:23 Blending Old School and Modern Methodologies

32:29 Finding Opportunities in Coaching Education

33:13 Learning from Other Sports

35:29 Building Relationships and Culture

46:10 Maximizing Efficiency in Coaching

50:56 Adapting Coaching Methods

54:26 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance

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Welcome back to the Contacts Coaching podcast, featuring an insightful conversation with Coach DeMar Lane from KIPP Navigate College Prep. In this episode, Coach Lane shares his journey from East Oakland, California, through his athletic career at Laney College and Southeastern Louisiana University, to his current role as an athletic director. Tune in as Coach Lane discusses the highs and lows of coaching, the influence of club sports, and the importance of intentionality, self-advocacy, and inclusivity in athletics. Learn about his innovative approach to coaching, including the implementation of study halls and fostering a supportive environment for all athletes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, education, and effective leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:30 Coach D Lane's Journey into Athletics

01:20 Transition to Coaching and Education

02:38 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching in California

03:42 The Influence of Club Sports

05:28 Navigating the Role of Athletic Director

14:01 Implementing Study Hall and Academic Standards

16:28 The Rise of Girls' Flag Football

16:59 Balancing Tradition and New Sports

22:04 The Impact of NIL on High School Sports

25:03 FIO: Figure It Out

27:28 Adversity and Leadership in Coaching

30:19 Dealing with a Difficult Parent

30:41 Accusations and Confrontations

31:29 Meeting with the Parent and Admin

33:05 Advice for Navigating Coaching Challenges

34:59 Importance of Communication in Coaching

36:18 Coaching Philosophy and Student Development

50:27 Special Education and Coaching

58:19 Intentionality and Leadership

01:00:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we sit down with Sara Shaughnessy, the athletic director at Castilleja, as she shares her journey from growing up immersed in sports to stepping into her new role in 2025. Sarah discusses her formative experiences in sports, coaching youth volleyball, and her 13-year tenure at the International School of San Francisco. She touches on leadership lessons, the importance of multi-sport participation, creating a positive team culture, and the benefits of involving parents as coaches. Sarah also shares her strategies for effective feedback, onboarding new coaches, and staying open to new opportunities. Join us for this insightful conversation about building successful athletic programs and empowering the next generation of athletes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:17 Sarah's Journey to Castilleja

02:23 Early Coaching Experiences

04:47 Lessons Learned as a Young Coach

06:46 Challenges and Mentorship in Athletic Directing

09:10 Onboarding and Building a New Program

17:37 Promoting Multi-Sport Participation

22:05 Data on Multi-Sport vs. Single-Sport Athletes

24:25 Promoting Play in Practice

27:10 Transitioning to a New Job

27:45 The Decision-Making Process

28:25 Building a Positive School Culture

31:29 Exploring New Opportunities

34:51 Supporting Young Coaches

37:57 Effective Feedback Pathways

42:24 Captain's Council: A Leadership Initiative

47:26 Adapting to New Environments

50:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this special episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we are joined by Carl Parnell, an expert marketer and educator, who shares his incredible journey from touring with a metal band to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Carl unfolds his story of transitioning from a musician to working at Microsoft, learning affiliate marketing, and eventually creating a highly successful online coaching business. He offers insights into how he helps people turn their expertise into profitable online courses, leveraging tools like Facebook groups and AI. Tune in to discover how his background as a musician and his roles in game testing have shaped his unique approach to teaching and marketing.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:54 Carl's Journey from Musician to Marketer

02:33 Transition to Marketing and Teaching

04:09 Success in Drop Shipping and Course Creation

07:30 Teaching Philosophy and Methods

12:29 Unique Course Ideas and AI Integration

16:31 The Impact of AI on Marketing

18:35 The Role of AI in Job Security

19:30 Evolution of Marketing Strategies

20:03 Effective Client Acquisition Techniques

21:47 Course Creation Timelines and Pricing

22:58 Maximizing Course Value and Engagement

32:21 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

36:14 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

Join us in this enriching episode as we catch up with Coach Gus Argenal, the newly appointed head basketball coach at UC Riverside. Reflecting on his successful tenure at Cal State San Bernardino, Coach Argenal shares invaluable insights on transitioning roles, the impact of COVID on basketball, the importance of clear communication, and adapting to rapid changes in the athletic landscape. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, learn about balancing team dynamics, the significance of empathy in coaching, navigating high school and transfer recruiting, and maintaining a collegiate atmosphere in modern basketball. Don't miss out on this candid and informative conversation aimed at anyone striving for excellence in sports leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:00 Coach Argenal's Career Journey

03:35 Challenges and Changes in Coaching

05:52 Training and Team Preparation

10:24 Insights from Coaching Experience

15:32 Adapting to Modern College Basketball

24:01 Balancing Professional and Personal Life

29:37 Reflecting on Family Moments

30:27 Cherishing Special Moments

32:18 Balancing Sports and Life

33:25 The Importance of Multi-Sport Athletes

35:52 Navigating Parental Expectations

41:07 The Value of Communication in Coaching

45:37 Conflict Leads to Intimacy

51:04 Data-Driven Coaching

53:50 Balancing Feel and Data in Decision Making

55:38 Diversity in Team Building

58:13 Concluding Thoughts

In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we are joined by Nick Peck, an award-winning journalist, Amazon bestseller, and former athlete and coach. Nick shares his inspiring life story, overcoming a challenging childhood to succeed in sports, coaching, and journalism. He discusses the importance of networking, balancing multiple passions, and staying present-focused. Nick also delves into his debut book, 'Only Way Out,' which addresses themes of resilience and finding a way through adversity. Tune in for valuable insights on leveraging sports experience in unexpected ways and the transformative power of perseverance.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:45 Nick's Journey to Coaching

02:44 Balancing Dual Roles: Athlete and Coach

06:00 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation

10:22 Navigating the World of Journalism

12:50 Building and Leveraging Networks

17:13 Nick's Book: Only Way Out

20:40 Final Thoughts and Advice

Join us on the Contacts Coaching Podcast as we sit down with JJ Santa Cruz, head basketball coach and athletic director at Copper Mountain College. Coach Santa Cruz shares his unorthodox journey through the world of athletics, from his early start coaching youth basketball to becoming a dean and coach in Joshua Tree, CA. Learn how he balances administrative responsibilities with coaching, adapts to the changing dynamics of college sports, and fosters a culture of growth and resilience within his teams. Tune in for valuable insights on managing dual roles, the impact of the transfer portal, and the evolving landscape of junior college sports.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:28 Coach JJ Santa Cruz's Journey into Coaching

03:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Coaching Career

06:39 Balancing Roles: Coach and Dean

08:55 Mentorship and Learning from Experience

13:26 Building a Winning Culture

16:32 Navigating the Dual Role of Coach and AD

21:35 Insights on Managing Athletic Programs

28:56 Introduction to Coaching Insights

29:57 Influence of Slogans and Team Building

31:52 Creating a Supportive Culture

35:47 Impact of the Transfer Portal

40:35 Challenges and Benefits of Coaching in Joshua Tree

47:24 Debate on Sports Specialization

53:48 Evolving Perspectives on Leadership

oin us on the Contacts Coaching Podcast as we sit down with Angela Lewis, former basketball coach, speaker, and author, who shares her inspiring journey from playing professional basketball to coaching and writing. Angela discusses her new book, 'A Ball and A Chance,' and delves into the life-changing experiences that shaped her career. From her serendipitous discovery at Blockbuster to playing in Germany, and eventually coaching in various universities, Angela's story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Learn about her insights on communication, community, and the importance of mentors as she navigates through the valleys and victories of life. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with wisdom for aspiring athletes, coaches, and anyone looking to succeed in life beyond the court.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

00:26 Angela's Journey into Basketball

03:05 Professional Career and Coaching

05:31 Transition to Writing and Speaking

06:24 International Experiences and Return to the US

12:06 Insights on Personal Growth and Mentorship

25:46 The Importance of Connections and Being Good to Others

26:18 Introducing the New Book: A Ball and A Chance

28:10 The Role of Family and Mentors in Personal Growth

30:33 Navigating Cultural Differences and Personal Growth

38:46 Effective Communication: Voice, Tone, and Body Language

50:17 The Value of Minimalism and Community

51:57 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

Communication Tips for Athletes: https://app.pitchdb.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=34f8891b-fa61-4bff-8986-96bb0a57fb77

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-lewis/

Website: https://angelarlewis.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelarlewis/

Feedback link and download about how to communicate effectively:

https://app.pitchdb.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=34f8891b-fa61-4bff-8986-96bb0a57fb77