Linked below are some of the best podcasts I’ve listened to lately. I did a similar post in late July, be sure to check that out here.

Fergus Connolly’s appearance on Unbreakable Podcast with Thom Shea Link / iTunes Mobile Link
I’m a huge fan of Connolly, the Performance Director for University of Michigan Football under Jim Harbaugh, and this podcast episode is a great introduction to Connolly’s philosophies. For more on Connolly, check out his new book Game Changer. Great stuff on doing the basics right during chaotic times and being comfortable not only being uncomfortable, but also having uncomfortable relationships.

Shaka Smart’s appearance on Finding Mastery: Conversations with Michael Gervais Link / iTunes Mobile Link
I linked to this specific podcast 3 weeks ago, but wanted to reference it again because it’s one of the best podcasts I’ve heard this year. His quote about changing one’s relationship with feedback at the 1:19:08 stopped me in my tracks.

Cleveland Cavaliers video coordinator Dan Geroit’s appearance on Stat Chat hosted by Dave Klatsky Link / iTunes Mobile Link
Fellow Patriot League assistant coach Dave Klatsky is doing a good job with his podcast and Dan Geroit’s appearance is my favorite episode so far. This podcast has good stuff on analytics, NBA defense and building up your package of adjustments.

How to Make Yourself Immune to Pain: David Goggins’ appearance on Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu Link / iTunes Mobile Link
Tom Bilyeu sits down with David Goggins, one of the world’s greatest ultra-endurance athletes, and the 50-minute conversation is ultra-aggressive, but has some great concepts to share with your players. Goggins shares his thoughts on his “cookie jar,” the power of self-talk and visualization, how to cultivate one’s personal drive and how one “calluses” his or her mind. I appreciate Merrimack College head coach Joey Gallo, who does a 4-mile run on the treadmill and acts like he’s David Goggins, for passing this along.

GM Street (Week 2) on The Ringer NFL Show Link / iTunes Mobile Link
Even if you’re not a big NFL fan, the “GM Street” editions of The Ringer NFL Show are must-listens because of the leadership/management/coaching gems Michael Lombardi drops. The episode linked above is a good example of Lombardi’s wisdom – from his take on late-game strategy to Charlie Munger’s “chauffeur knowledge” to the head coach’s main job on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Jeff Van Gundy’s appearance on R2C2 with CC Sabathia & Ryan Ruocco Link / iTunes Mobile Link
Although it takes a bit to get into the substance portion of the interview, this is a good 40-minute convo between Van Gundy and the hosts. 2 things stood out to me: Van Gundy’s story about Pat Riley + his line about the combination of stubbornness and coachability a player must have.

Dick LeBeau’s appearance on The MMQB Podcast Link / iTunes Mobile Link
I loved this conversation between Peter King and Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. LeBeau is the first person in NFL history to hold the role of coordinator into his 80’s. The interview is a great portrait of a true coach’s coach. I loved his answer to how he came up with the idea of the zone blitz (“a safer way to get pressure”).

If there are any good podcasts you’ve listened to lately that I didn’t reference here, please shoot me an email at zakboisvert@gmail.com