Sideline Ascent

About Sideline Ascent

Sideline Ascent, hosted by Mike Marich (mindsetcurated.com (http://mindsetcurated.com)) and Taryn Sheehan (morriganathletics.com (http://morriganathletics.com)) The next generation of athletes deserves leaders who reflect them, understand them, and actually see them. And coaches deserve more than survival mode. They deserve community. They deserve mentorship. They deserve tools that make the job sustainable, not just for the season but for the long haul. The youth and college landscapes are changing fast. NIL is reshaping opportunity. The transfer portal is redefining how teams are built. Coaches are navigating more complexity than ever, and they shouldn't have to do it alone. Each week, Mike and Taryn dive into real conversations with coaches at the top of their games about what coaching looks like today: supporting athletes' emotional well-being, navigating life outside the sport, building culture, managing modern pressures, and growing into confident, capable leaders beyond the game. We're breaking the cycle by giving coaches the guidance so many of us never had. No ego. No gatekeeping. Just honest talk, practical tools, and a community that lifts each other up. Wherever you are on your coaching journey — on the track, on the court, in the classroom, or figuring it out as you go — this space is for you. This is Sideline Ascent. Let's climb together.

Publisher

Sideline Ascent

Category

education · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Jun 2026

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Oct 2026

   Episode 18: Trust Your Instincts: Dartmouth's Taylor Schram on Coaching and Leadership

   In this episode of Sideline Ascent, Taylor Schram discusses her journey from a successful collegiate athlete to a head coach at Dartmouth, highlighting the influence of her mentors and the importance of building relationships in coaching. She emphasizes the significance of creating an inviting and intentional soccer environment for her players, focusing on their development and fostering a culture of accountability and fun. In this conversation, Taylor Schram discusses the challenges and insights gained from transitioning into a head coaching role, particularly in managing staff and building a strong team culture within the Ivy League context. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of character in recruiting, the unique stability of the Ivy League, and the ongoing challenges female coaches face in a male-dominated environment. Takeaways Importance of mentorship Building a positive team culture Coaching is about managing people Character is key in recruiting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Taylor Schram 01:59 The Journey to Coaching 06:08 Influence of Female Coaches 10:10 Developing Coaching Philosophy 18:03 Building Relationships and Culture 28:07 Trusting Your Instincts in Career Choices 34:06 Creating an Intentional Soccer Environment 36:04 Transitioning to Head Coach 39:44 The Ivy League Experience 44:26 Building a Strong Team Culture 47:29 Recruiting for Character 52:05 Self-Care for Coaches 56:20 Advice for New Coaches 58:14 Challenges for Female Coaches Taylor Schram (https://dartmouthsports.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/coaches/taylor-schram/10635)

2. 

   7 Oct 2026

   Episode 17: Brian Tomkins Coaching With Purpose: The Power of Listening and Connection

   The conversation features Brian Tompkins, a seasoned coach with extensive experience in soccer, discussing the evolution of coaching, the importance of teaching in coaching, and the significance of understanding one's purpose or 'why' in coaching. He emphasizes the need for authenticity, adaptability, and the role of values in coaching, reflecting on his own journey and the changing dynamics of athlete-coach relationships. The conversation explores Brian Tompkins' coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of listening, vulnerability, and emotional intelligence in coaching. It also discusses the evolution of soccer in the U.S. and Brian's experiences coaching at various levels, including his time in the Women's Super League. Takeaways Coaching is an extension of teaching Understanding your 'why' is crucial Listening is crucial for coaching Soccer's growth in the U.S. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Coaching 05:39 Evolving Nature of Coaching 12:51 Elevating Others Through Coaching 24:07 The Importance of Values in Coaching 33:31 The Art of Listening in Coaching 35:59 Vulnerability and Personal Growth 41:27 Navigating Challenges with Calmness 48:01 Soccer Development in the U.S. 55:27 Coaching in the Women's Super League 01:00:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

3. 

   30 Sept 2026

   More Than the Game: Victoria Crawford on Coaching, Mentorship & Resilience

   The conversation covers Coach Crawford's journey to coaching, the impact of mentors, youth development and coaching, instilling confidence and self-belief, challenges of social media and comparison, and leadership through tragedy. The takeaways include the importance of passion for the game and the significance of mentors in a coaching career. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating tragedy and loss, the experience of leading through adversity, and the importance of mindset and mentorship in coaching. It highlights the resilience and support required in the face of adversity, as well as the role of mentorship in coaching. Takeaways Passion for the Game Importance of Mentors Resilience in the face of adversity Support and mentorship in coaching Chapters 00:00 Journey to Coaching 03:01 The Impact of Mentors 08:22 Youth Development and Coaching 13:18 Instilling Confidence and Self-Belief 17:06 Challenges of Social Media and Comparison 21:28 Leadership Through Tragedy 29:54 Navigating Tragedy and Loss 39:34 Leading Through Adversity 48:31 Mindset and Mentorship Victoria Crawford (https://fiskathletics.com/information/directory/bios/Victoria_Crawford) QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability in Work and in Life by John G. Miller (https://www.amazon.com/dp/014305709X?lv=shuf&hvlocphy=9013186&hvptwo=&hvnetw=g&mcid=&hvext=383319036245&hvadid=812936380774&language=en_US&hvpone=&hvlocint=&hvcampaign=23946687799&hydadcr=11506_13716125_2515000&hvpos=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvocijid=6967493556062067784--&hvqmt=a&hvexpln=0&tag=smgglusdsadts-20&hvtargid=kwl-2484167636399&adgrpid=195855870165&hvrand=6967493556062067784&channelId=500&ref_=&plpRedirect=mhFallback)

4. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Episode 15: Building From the Ground Up: Joe Amplo on Culture, Coaching & Leadership

   The conversation with Joe Amplo covers his journey from playing lacrosse to coaching, the challenges of starting a program from scratch, and the transition to coaching at the Naval Academy. It also delves into the importance of culture in coaching and the unique aspects of coaching at a military institution. Joe Amplo reflects on his coaching journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned. He discusses the impact of his coaching style on his team and the importance of balancing work and family life. Additionally, he shares his involvement in service projects and the books that have influenced him. Takeaways Starting a program from scratch presents unique challenges and opportunities. The importance of culture in coaching and the impact it has on a team's success. Coaching requires adaptability and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Balancing work and family life is crucial for coaches, and support from family is essential. Service projects and community involvement can have a lasting impact on both the team and the community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coaching Journey 02:59 Transition to Coaching and Early Career 06:10 Building a Program from Scratch 24:00 Transition to the Naval Academy 27:02 Coaching at a Military Institution 28:25 The Evolution of Coaching Style 30:47 Mentoring and Developing Assistant Coaches 35:07 Balancing Work and Family Life 38:13 Involvement in Service Projects 44:55 Influential Books and Resources Joe Amplo (https://navysports.com/staff-directory/joe-amplo/489) The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0804176981?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback) All the Way to the River: Love, Loss, and Liberation by Elizabeth Gilbert (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593540980?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback) The Carpenter: The Three Greatest Sucess Strategies of All by Jon Gordon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0470888547?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback)

5. 

   16 Sept 2026

   Episode 14: Impact. Inclusivity. Inspiration.: Jason Maxwell’s Approach to Coaching

   Jason Maxwell, a former professional baseball player, shares his journey from playing to coaching and building a successful baseball program at Ensworth High School. He emphasizes the importance of values, standards, and the balance between sports and life for young athletes. The conversation covers topics such as coaching philosophy, the experience of coaching national teams, the transition from high school to college athletics, and the importance of inclusivity and relationship-building. Jason Maxwell emphasizes the three 'I's' - impact, inclusivity, and inspiration - as key principles in his coaching philosophy. He also discusses the challenges and rewards of coaching national teams and the transition to the role of athletic director. Takeaways Coachability is a key trait for successful athletes. Balancing sports and life is crucial for young athletes. Setting standards instead of rules creates a positive and growth-oriented environment. Coaching Philosophy: Jason Maxwell's coaching philosophy revolves around the three 'I's' - impact, inclusivity, and inspiration. These principles guide his approach to coaching and building relationships with players and coaches. Transition to Athletic Director: Maxwell discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from coaching to the role of athletic director, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and relationship-building within the school community. Chapters 00:00 From Player to Coach 03:31 Building a Baseball Program from Scratch 11:24 The Impact of Social Media and Travel Sports 16:10 The Importance of Coachability and Balance 17:46 Setting Standards and Values 24:37 Coaching Philosophy: The Three 'I's' 26:06 Coaching National Teams 28:42 Transition to Athletic Director The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, 20th Anniversary Edition by Patrick M. Lencioni (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0787960756?pd_rd_plhdr=t&hsa_cr_id=0&qid=1789386909&sr=1-1-fec03104-6f11-4242-8f79-15fae2896f66&i=aps&aref=Dbx8pBWpdM&_encoding=UTF8&ref_=sbx_s_sparkle_sbtcd_asin_0_img&pd_rd_w=fr2bl&content-id=amzn1.sym.22e060df-ce87-467b-805a-61b8bd37fbe9%3Aamzn1.sym.22e060df-ce87-467b-805a-61b8bd37fbe9&pf_rd_p=22e060df-ce87-467b-805a-61b8bd37fbe9&pf_rd_r=6R3FXR6RHBQQ83S0WJA2&pd_rd_wg=q3TqP&pd_rd_r=7f2ab78f-776c-4299-be3b-a0913d5d9dc8)

6. 

   9 Sept 2026

   Episode 13: Finding Your Lane: Dani Korman on Coaching and Growth

   The conversation with Dani Korman covers her journey as a swimmer and coach, the challenges and opportunities of coaching, the importance of leadership and mentorship, and the differences between coaching at Division I and Division III levels. It also delves into the evolving landscape of college athletics and the focus on holistic development of student-athletes. The journey of a coach, the challenges faced, and the impact of gender in coaching are explored. The importance of networking, imposter syndrome, and the need for support are highlighted. The conversation also delves into the unique experiences of female coaches and the challenges they face in the profession. Takeaways Coaching at Division III allows for more holistic development of student-athletes, focusing on their overall growth and not just athletic performance. Effective leadership in coaching involves open communication, adaptability, and a clear vision for the team's success. Journey of a Coach Imposter Syndrome Gender in Coaching Chapters 00:00 Coaching at Division III vs. Division I 28:32 The Journey of a Coach 35:23 Imposter Syndrome and Gender in Coaching Kenyon Swimming - Dani Korman (https://athletics.kenyon.edu/sports/mens-swimming-and-diving/roster/coaches/dani-korman/1252) The Curiousity Shop (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-curiosity-shop-with-bren%C3%A9-brown-and-adam-grant/id1730985049)

7. 

   2 Sept 2026

   Episode 12: The Coaching Mindset: Adele Harris on Leadership, Growth, and Refusing to Lose

   Adele Harris shares her journey from playing Division I basketball to becoming a successful coach, highlighting the impact of her first coach and the lessons learned from leading a team. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, leadership, and the development of student-athletes. Additionally, she discusses the significance of working with the right coaches and the resources available for professional development. The conversation covers topics such as coaching, leadership, personal growth, and the creation of the 'Refuse to Lose' company. Adell Harris shares insights on the importance of mentorship, adaptability, and building a support system in the coaching profession. She also emphasizes the need for personal discipline and the value of learning from other leaders. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the book '10x' and the mindset of thinking big. Takeaways Mentorship and leadership are crucial in shaping the development of student-athletes. Working with the right coaches and mentors can significantly impact a coach's trajectory and success. Mentorship and support are crucial for coaches, especially for first-time head coaches. Adaptability and the ability to think like a CEO are essential for success in the coaching profession. Personal discipline and the pursuit of continuous learning are key to becoming a better coach and leader. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of the First Coach 04:43 Lessons from Leading a Team 07:10 The Importance of Mentorship and Leadership 18:27 Working with the Right Coaches and Mentors 31:22 The Coaching Partnership 31:58 Elevating the Head Coach 33:38 Dress for the Role You Want 35:41 Adversity as an Advantage 36:13 The 'Refuse to Lose' Journey 52:26 The Coaching Mindset 10x Is Easier Than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/10x-Easier-Than-World-Class-Entrepreneurs/dp/140196995X) Adell Harris (https://goblueraiders.com/staff-directory/adell-harris/680) PEACC (https://www.skool.com/peacc-23/about)

8. 

   26 Aug 2026

   Episode 11: Coaching the Coaches: Andy Dunn on Mentorship and Sustainability in Athletics

   Andy Dunn, Director of Athletics and Afternoon Program at the TAF School, shares his journey from Yale to Taft, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with student athletes and coaches. He discusses the unique environment of boarding schools and the impact of mentorship and balance in the athletic department. The conversation covers topics related to coaching, mentorship, leadership, and the challenges faced by female coaches. It also delves into the importance of relationships, communication, and work-life balance in the coaching profession. Takeaways Relationships and mentorship are crucial in the development of student athletes and coaches. The role of an administrator in a boarding school environment goes beyond wins and losses, focusing on the holistic development of young individuals. Managing up as a coach involves picking battles, advocating thoughtfully, and giving administrators an opportunity to support you. Female coaches need support, mentorship, and understanding from administrators to make the coaching profession sustainable. Chapters 00:00 Journey to Taft: From Yale to Boarding School 02:42 The Importance of Building Relationships 08:47 Balancing Work and Personal Life 14:23 The Role of Coaches in Boarding Schools 25:40 Transformational Leadership and Mentorship 29:08 Managing Up as a Coach 36:27 Preparing for the Next Coaching Role 42:29 Challenges Faced by Female Coaches 51:36 Leadership Advice for New Coaches and Administrators 52:20 The Importance of Process and Outcome in Coaching

9. 

   19 Aug 2026

   Episode 10: Coaching With Purpose: Mason Poli on Culture, Leadership & Player Ownership

   Mason Poli, head coach of Quinnipiac University's men's lacrosse team, shares insights on leadership, coaching philosophy, and team culture. He emphasizes the importance of recruiting the right people, building a strong team culture, and evolving as a coach. The program's success is attributed to punctuality, attention to detail, and the leadership hierarchy within the team. The conversation covers various coaching strategies and philosophies, emphasizing the importance of player ownership, free play, and developing a coaching tree. It also delves into the challenges of coaching and the need for mental health support. Mason Poli shares insights on delegation, asking questions, and building confidence as a coach. Takeaways Recruiting the right people is crucial for building a successful team. Leadership by Darwinism allows players to earn leadership roles through their actions and commitment. The program's success is attributed to punctuality, attention to detail, and the leadership hierarchy within the team. Player ownership and free play are essential for developing leadership and decision-making skills. Coaches should prioritize mental health support and create an environment where players feel comfortable and motivated. Delegation, asking questions, and building confidence are key habits for effective coaching. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mason Poli 01:03 Face Off Questions 03:17 Transition to Coaching 05:06 Recruiting and Networking 09:33 Youth Development and Changing Landscape of Lacrosse 15:01 Balancing Sports and Academics 26:57 Coaching Philosophy and Values 35:07 Leadership and Team Culture 36:07 Player Ownership and Free Play 37:28 Challenges of Coaching and Mental Health Support 42:17 Coaching Strategies and Philosophies 57:18 Building Confidence and Delegation

10. 

    12 Aug 2026

    Episode 9: You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup: Rethinking Coaching Culture w/ Dr. Alix Krahn

    In this episode, we chat with Dr. Alix Krahn, Assistant Coach, Women's Volleyball, University of Toronto (Varsity Blues). (https://varsityblues.ca/sports/womens-volleyball)The conversation covers the journey of a coach and researcher, the concept of servant leadership, and the challenges of overwork culture in sport coaching, particularly for women. It also delves into the emotional labor experienced by women coaches and the need for self-care practices in coaching. Alix discusses the impact of emotional labor on sport coaching, the gendered dynamics at play, and the need for boundary-setting and self-care. She also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and self-reflection in coaching, as well as the need for diverse leadership styles in the field of sports. Takeaways Servant leadership is about prioritizing the growth and well-being of team members above oneself. The overwork culture in sport coaching affects both men and women, leading to struggles in private and home lives outside of sport. Emotional labor in sport coaching impacts both men and women, but the study focuses on women's experiences. The need for boundary-setting, self-care, and forgiveness is crucial for coaches to maintain their well-being and effectiveness in their roles. Chapters 00:00 The Coach-Researcher Journey 01:02 The Face Off: Quick Questions 04:04 The Formation of Coaching Habits 26:21 The Challenge of Emotional Labor 28:52 The Impact of Emotional Labor in Sport Coaching 30:41 The Gendered Dynamics of Coaching 39:08 The Power Dynamics in Coaching Relationships 50:16 The Importance of Boundary-Setting and Self-Care

11. 

    5 Aug 2026

    Episode 8: Creating a joyful environment for athletes w/ Princeton's Shelly Picard

    The conversation covers a range of topics including sports, coaching challenges, gender disparity in coaching, and creating a joyful environment for athletes. Shelly Picard (https://goprincetontigers.com/sports/womens-ice-hockey/roster/coaches/shelly-picard/10441) shares her coaching journey, experiences, and insights into the world of coaching, highlighting the importance of mentorship and the need for more women in coaching roles. The discussion also delves into the challenges and rewards of coaching at different levels, emphasizing the value of creating a positive and joyful environment for athletes. The conversation delves into the importance of building trust and creating psychological safety within a team, the role of effective coaching and communication, navigating parental expectations, and the complexity of the coaching profession. Takeaways Coaching Challenges Gender Disparity in Coaching Creating a Joyful Environment Building Trust Creating Psychological Safety Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Promotion 00:16 Discussion on World Cup and Sports 00:30 Getting to Know Shelly Picard 00:42 Favorite Sports Movie and Walkout Song 01:05 Coaching and Sports in Summer 01:37 The Role of Coaches in Fitness 02:02 Shelly's Coaching Journey 03:35 Returning to Princeton and Coaching Experience 04:15 Growth and Development as a Coach 04:43 Challenges and Versatility in Coaching 06:34 Imposter Syndrome and Coaching Realization 08:21 Mentorship and Coaching Journey 12:49 Gender Disparity in Coaching 21:47 Coaching Challenges and Joy 27:36 Building Trust and Psychological Safety 30:08 Coaching and Communication 45:44 Navigating Parental Expectations 53:31 Complexity of Coaching Profession

12. 

    29 Jul 2026

    Episode 7: The Power of Purpose: Coaching for Impact Beyond Wins & Losses w/ Hofstra's Seth Tierney

    The conversation delves into the journey of coaching, the role of a coach, coaching burnout, building and inheriting a team, longevity and loyalty in coaching, coaching your own children, recruiting and culture building, financial literacy and NIL, and teaching life lessons through coaching. The conversation covers the topics of building relationships with players, coaching the US national team, the growth of lacrosse, adversity and resilience, and lessons from coaching. It delves into the challenges and rewards of coaching, the impact of professional lacrosse leagues, and the importance of mental resilience in sports. Takeaways Coaching involves a journey of building, inheriting, and sustaining a team over time. The role of a coach extends beyond the field, encompassing unseen work, burnout, and the impact on personal and professional life. Recruiting, loyalty, and longevity in coaching contribute to the culture and success of a team. Coaching one's own children presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Financial literacy and NIL play a role in shaping the future of college athletics and the life skills of student-athletes. Building strong relationships with players is essential for effective coaching. Coaching professional athletes requires a different approach compared to coaching college athletes. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Coaching 01:20 The Role of a Coach 02:08 Coaching Burnout and Unseen Work 02:44 Building and Inheriting a Team 04:06 Longevity and Loyalty in Coaching 06:46 Coaching Your Own Children 10:57 Recruiting and Culture Building 17:35 Financial Literacy and NIL 23:09 Teaching Life Lessons Through Coaching 27:34 Building Relationships with Players 31:07 Coaching the US National Team 39:05 The Growth of Lacrosse 36:44 Adversity and Resilience 46:16 Lessons from Coaching https://gohofstra.com/sports/mens-lacrosse (https://gohofstra.com/sports/mens-lacrosse) https://www.usalacrosse.com/us-men (https://www.usalacrosse.com/us-men)

13. 

    22 Jul 2026

    Episode 6: Beyond Team Culture Basics w/ MIT's Julie Heyde

    Julie Heyde, the director of track and field and cross country at MIT, shares her journey from college athlete to college coach, emphasizing the importance of experience and learning from various coaching roles. She discusses her coaching philosophy, the significance of building trust and relationships, training strategies, and team culture. Additionally, she highlights the differences between coaching in Division I and Division III, emphasizing the commitment and buy-in of athletes in Division III. The conversation covers topics such as managing expectations, recruiting the right people, challenges faced as a female coach, and mentoring and developing others. It delves into the process of moving forward after achieving success, the importance of recruiting the right individuals, the unique challenges faced by female coaches, and the significance of mentoring and developing others in the coaching profession. Takeaways Commitment to Team Coaching Philosophy Managing Expectations Recruiting the Right People Chapters 00:00 Journey to College Coaching 02:54 Learning from Experience 08:01 Leadership and Coaching Philosophy 14:59 Building Trust and Relationships 20:11 Training Strategies and Team Culture 24:01 Differences Between Division I and Division III 29:19 Managing Expectations and Moving Forward 34:22 Recruiting the Right People 40:17 Challenges Faced as a Female Coach 48:33 Mentoring and Developing Others

14. 

    15 Jul 2026

    Episode 5: Why Success in Coaching Comes Down to Being Authentic & Listening w/ SLU's Chris Wells

    The conversation with Chris Wells covers his coaching journey, coaching philosophy, and the impact of coaching in his hometown. It also delves into the long-term success of his program, player development, and the community connection. Chris shares insights into his coaching evolution and the importance of creating a positive program culture. The conversation delves into the challenges of building a competitive culture, balancing competition and sportsmanship, and the importance of maintaining a player's identity beyond hockey. It also explores the challenges of pro aspirations, navigating interference and support, supporting athletes' mental health, recruiting strategies and challenges, staff development and roles, the roller coaster of coaching, youth sports and parental involvement, and advice for young coaches. Takeaways Coaching Philosophy Community Connection Building a competitive culture Balancing competition and sportsmanship The importance of being oneself as a coach Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coaching Background 01:20 Early Coaching Aspirations and Career Beginnings 03:18 Evolution of Coaching Philosophy 05:15 Coaching in Hometown and Community Impact 08:45 Long-Term Success and Program Development 12:58 Player Development and Program Culture 24:56 Creating a Competitive Culture 26:04 Balancing Competition and Sportsmanship 27:06 Identity Beyond Hockey 28:25 Challenges of Pro Aspirations 29:17 Navigating Interference and Support 30:09 Supporting Athletes' Mental Health 31:26 Recruiting Strategies and Challenges 34:35 Staff Development and Roles 36:31 The Roller Coaster of Coaching 37:53 Youth Sports and Parental Involvement 44:33 Advice for Young Coaches

15. 

    8 Jul 2026

    Episode 4: Emotional Regulation Sets Great Coaches Apart w/ Maren Walseth

    Maren Walseth's coaching philosophy is built on lived experience. She played in the WNBA before becoming a Division I women's basketball head coach, and now works as a performance coach, speaker, and basketball analyst helping leaders and athletes perform at their best under pressure. Episode Summary: On this episode of Sideline Ascent, Taryn Sheehan and I sit down with Maren Walseth to talk about the emotional side of high-stakes competition. Maren walks through her own journey from player to coach, the different demands of each coaching role she's held, and what she's learned about leading through pressure. The core of the conversation is a simple but hard-to-execute idea: the best coaches learn to respond instead of react. We dig into what that actually looks like in practice, and why emotional regulation might be the most underrated skill in coaching. https://www.marenwalseth.com/ (https://www.marenwalseth.com/) Takeaways Emotional regulation is crucial in coaching high-stakes games. The transition from player to coach involves challenges and a shift in perspective. Creating space for response Establishing core values Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:00 Transition from Player to Coach 14:16 Emotional Regulation and Coaching Philosophy 22:55 Response vs. Reaction in Coaching 34:20 Hiring with Intention 39:37 Navigating Emotional Situations 46:28 Being an Authentic Coach

16. 

    1 Jul 2026

    Episode 3: Building Resilience & Confidence in Athletes with Dena Evans

    The conversation covers Dena Evans' coaching philosophy, early coaching experiences, and the impact of coaching at Stanford on future coaching. It also explores Stanford's national championship program, building resilience and confidence in athletes, and the importance of transparency and communication in coaching. Dina Evans shares her approach to coaching and the significance of small wins and gradual change in training. The conversation highlights the importance of athlete development and the role of wearables in training. It also discusses the challenges and successes of coaching elite athletes. The conversation covers topics such as resilience, transition from collegiate coaching, challenges in coaching careers, entrepreneurial path and impact, coaching and recognition, involvement in youth sports, advocacy and support for female coaches, challenges of distance coaching, Peninsula Distance Club and coaching approach, athlete development and coaching advice, coaching legacy and advice, and supporting women in coaching. Takeaways Importance of transparency and communication in coaching Gradual change and small wins in training resilience and rebound are essential in coaching careers Support and advocacy for female coaches are crucial for the growth of the coaching community Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Golfing 07:22 Stanford's National Championship Program 13:16 Impact of Coaching at Stanford on Future Coaching 26:34 Resilience and Rebound 32:21 Involvement in Youth Sports 41:22 Athlete Development and Coaching Advice 48:30 Supporting Women in Coaching

17. 

    24 Jun 2026

    Episode 2: Building a Winning Culture: The Compassionately Direct Approach w/ Nazareth's Chris Baudo

    The conversation with Chris Baudo, head coach of the Nazareth University Women's Ice Hockey Program, covers topics such as coaching philosophy, leadership, mentorship, and building a successful team. Chris shares insights on the importance of communication, compassionately direct coaching, and the process of putting together a cohesive coaching staff. The conversation also delves into the values and non-negotiables that guide the program. The conversation covers topics such as creating a culture, coaching men vs. women, building confidence, developing leadership, and coaching advice. Chris emphasizes the importance of authenticity, putting others first, and serving others as a coach. He also highlights the need for trial and error and the development of EQ in coaching. Takeaways Compassionately direct coaching Building a cohesive coaching staff Authenticity and putting others first are key to successful coaching. Developing EQ and understanding the individual needs of players is crucial for effective coaching. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coaching Background 06:13 Reflection and Self-Exploration 11:52 Communication and Coaching Generation Z 17:55 Building a Cohesive Coaching Staff 43:19 Coaching Advice

18. 

    17 Jun 2026

    Episode 1: Mentorship Matters: 30 Years of Building Champions with UConn's Beth Alford-Sullivan.

    Beth Alfred Sullivan, a trailblazing coach in collegiate track and field, shares her journey, coaching philosophy, mentorship, and insights on navigating gender expectations in coaching. Her impact on the sport and her unique coaching style are evident throughout the conversation. The conversation covers the challenges and strategies of coaching, emotional leadership, rest and time management, and the empowerment of women in sport. Beth Alford-Sullivan shares insights on maintaining head coach status, emotional coaching, building a supportive coaching staff, and the importance of rest and time management. She also emphasizes the value of non-superstar athletes and provides advice for new coaches. Additionally, she discusses the importance of empowerment and mentorship for women in sport. https://letsgoccc.com/ (https://letsgoccc.com/) Takeaways Trailblazing leadership Navigating gender expectations Emotional coaching and leadership Building a supportive coaching staff Chapters 00:00 The Trailblazing Coach 08:12 Coaching Philosophy and Mentorship 16:05 Recruiting and Core Principles 21:54 Coaching Style and Impact 27:27 Navigating Gender Expectations 36:05 Importance of Rest and Time Management 41:12 Value of Non-Superstar Athletes

19. 

    10 Jun 2026

    Trailer: Welcome to Sideline Ascent

    Great coaches invest everything in their athletes. But who invests in them? Sideline Ascent is the podcast built for coaches who want real conversations, actionable advice, and a community that gets it. Every week, Mike Marich and Taryn Sheehan sit down with expert coaches to share the strategies, lessons, and stories that make them elite. New episodes every week. Follow, subscribe, and start your ascent.

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