Coach and Coordinator Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Game Planning Tips - Anticipating Calls, Tendencies & Timing Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Keith Grabowski shares insights from his Sunday newsletter, featuring Joe Loth, Head Coach at Southern Connecticut State, who discusses effective play selection and game planning. Wes Goodwin, LB Coach at Oklahoma, outlines structured game week preparation focused on efficiency in the defensive game plan, while Jeff Simmons, Special Teams Coordinator at Carnegie Mellon highlights the importance of film prep for special teams, specifically blocking kicks.

Ready to gain an edge on game night?

Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night.

Book a demo today and see the difference this week: ⁠https://www.modernfootball.com/demo

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Your Call - Reviving St. Francis Football: Building Belief, Culture, and Leadership - Josh Lindke, Head Coach, Toledo St. Francis (OH) Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Josh Lindke, Head Coach at Toledo St. Francis, shares his inspiring journey of leadership and resilience. Taking over a program that had six head coaches in just five years, Lindke faced the daunting challenge of reviving a struggling football team.

He discusses the “trial by fire” of stepping into the role, the importance of culture and belief in transforming a program, and why fit matters more than anything in coaching. Lindke reflects on his transition from a successful tenure at Otsego to leading St. Francis, and how persistence, leadership, and a positive daily outlook have breathed new life into the program.

Chapters

Introduction to Coaching Journey
Transitioning from Assistant to Head Coach
Challenges of Coaching a Struggling Program
Building Belief and Culture in a New Program
Transforming St. Francis Football
Looking Ahead: The Future of St. Francis Football

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski

Josh Lindke: @Coach_JLindke

Learn More About Our Partner: The Headset App

Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level.

Download The Headset App today and start coaching smarter!

Transform your football program with CultureAI!

Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai.

The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

National Coach of the Week - Coaching Through Rivalries: Preparation, Pressure, and Community - Gary Swenson, Head Coach, Valley HS (IA) Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Gary Swenson, Head Coach at Valley High School, to discuss the unique intensity of rivalry games in high school football.

They dive into the emotional impact these games have on players and communities, the strategic preparation required by coaches, and the importance of moving forward after the final whistle—win or lose. Swenson also shares insights on the challenges of facing rivals multiple times in a season, the decisive role of special teams in game mechanics, and how routine and fundamentals help players thrive under pressure.

This episode highlights not only the competitive spirit of high school football but also its deeper role in fostering school pride and community connection.

Chapters

Introduction to Rivalry and Season Start
The Emotional Impact of Rivalry Games
Preparation Strategies for High-Stakes Games
Moving On After a Rivalry Game
Facing a Rival Again: Adjustments and Strategies
Special Teams and Game Mechanics
Conclusion and Reflections on Coaching

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski

Gary Swenson: @CoachSwensVTFB

Ready to gain an edge on game night?

Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night.

Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next Move - Steps to Bridge Your Career from HS to College Football - Brandon Linney, RC/RB Coach, Bryant University Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski sits down with Brandon Linney, Recruiting Coordinator and RB Coach at Bryant University, to explore the real path behind coaching success. From his early days coaching high school football to making the leap into the college ranks, Brandon shares a candid look at the journey—emphasizing the impact of relationships, mentorship, and consistently adding value to every staff you join.

The conversation offers practical insights into recruiting, networking, and the mindset shift needed to transition from high school to college coaching. Whether you're aiming to grow professionally or lead your athletes more effectively, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on work ethic, teaching philosophy, and career progression. It’s a must-listen for any coach ready to take the next step with purpose and persistence.

Chapters

The Journey of Coaching: From High School to D1
Building Value and Relationships in Coaching
Overcoming Challenges and Networking for Success
Pour Into Your Journey: Embracing Change
The Unique Value of Coach Portal

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski

Brandon Linney - @CoachLinney

Get in the Coach Portal:

Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at https://www.coach-portal.com/ and make your next move.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Art of Practice - Mastering Efficiency: Innovative Practice Strategies, Competition, Communication, and Technology - Patrick Walsh, Head Coach, Serra HS (CA) Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Patrick Walsh Head Coach of Serra High School to explore how efficiency and innovation can transform football practices. Drawing from his own experiences, Walsh explains how effective practice structures not only maximize time but also create a competitive environment that mirrors real game scenarios.

He shares insights on managing two-way players, the value of starting practices with team activities to set the tone, and the importance of strong communication among the coaching staff. The conversation also highlights how technology—tools like Hudl and GoRout—has revolutionized practice management, streamlining organization and boosting player engagement.

Chapters

Introduction to Efficient Practice Strategies
Structuring Practice for Success
Competing in Practice: Simulating Game Scenarios
Managing Two-Way Players Effectively
The Importance of Communication in Coaching
Leveraging Technology for Practice Efficiency
Utilizing Support Staff for Enhanced Practice Dynamics

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski

Patrick Walsh: @coachwalsh20

Related Podcasts:

The Unsung Heroes of Football Staffs- Trevor Hudson, Keegan Wirtz, Patrick Walsh, Mark Solis

National Coach of the Week- Patrick Walsh, Head Coach, Serra HS (CA)

Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout

GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at ⁠gorout.com/podcast

Transform your football program with CultureAI!

Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

National Coach of the Week - Rod Sherman, Orange Lutheran HS (CA) Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, Orange Lutheran High School (CA) Head Coach Rod Sherman reflects on his unique journey into coaching and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Despite having no background as a football player, Sherman’s path shows how leadership, consistency, and personal growth are essential to creating a lasting impact both on and off the field.

He shares insights on balancing family life with the demands of coaching, the value of feedback in driving improvement, and how traveling for competitions creates meaningful memories for players. Sherman also discusses the pressures coaches face to meet expectations, the importance of embracing a growth mindset, and how technology and mental health awareness are reshaping the modern game.

Chapters

Introduction to Coach Rod Sherman
Rod Sherman's Unique Coaching Journey
Traveling for a National Stage
Leadership and Leading from a Full Cup
Balancing Personal Life and Coaching
Embracing Feedback and Growth Mindset
The Pressure of Expectations in Coaching
Utilizing Technology in Coaching

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠

Ready to gain an edge on game night?

Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night.

Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo

⁠⁠

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next Move - Owning the Role: Growth and Grit as a Student Assistant - Jacob McDaniel, Student Assistant, Oklahoma Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Jacob McDaniel, a student assistant at the University of Oklahoma, to discuss the critical role that growth, time management, and relationship-building play in the early stages of a coaching career. Jacob shares his perspective on how young coaches and student assistants can stand out in competitive environments by being proactive, consistent, and intentional in their development.

From taking detailed notes to understanding the broader vision of a program, this episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to turn opportunity into long-term success in coaching.

Chapters

Introduction to Growth and Learning as a Student Assistant
Setting Yourself Apart in a Competitive Environment
Building Relationships and Understanding the Bigger Picture

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski

Jacob McDaniel - @_jacobmcdaniel

Get in the Coach Portal:

Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at ⁠⁠https://www.coach-portal.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ and make your next move.

Transform your football program with CultureAI!

Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at:

coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai⁠.

The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your Call - Building Mental Toughness Through the Cycle of the Snap - Bobby Johnson III, OC/OL Coach, Norwich University Aug 26, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Your Call presented by The Headset App, Bobby Johnson III, Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach at Norwich University, shares his coaching philosophy and the power of the Cycle of the Snap in building mental toughness and team culture. Drawing on lessons from his previous coaching stops at RPI and UNE, Johnson explains how consistency, communication, and structured practices help players reset quickly after each play and stay locked in under pressure.

He breaks down practical strategies for reinforcing mental resilience, from using verbal and physical cues to evaluating performance immediately after snaps. Johnson also highlights the importance of full commitment from the coaching staff and adapting approaches to meet the unique needs of his players at Norwich.

Chapters

Introduction to Coaching Philosophy
The Cycle of the Snap
Building Mental Toughness
Implementing the Cycle of the Snap
Commitment to the Process

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski

Bobby Johnson III: @CoachJohnsonOL

Learn More About Our Partner: The Headset App

Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level.

Download The Headset App and start coaching smarter!

Transform your football program with CultureAI!

Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building Athletic Legacies with Content Creation - Chris Herman, Story of the Season Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Coach and Coordinator podcast, Chris Herman shares his journey from quarterback at Oberlin College to entrepreneur, helping athletic programs tell their stories through modern content creation. He discusses the power of branding in high school and college sports, and how engaging players in the process not only builds morale but also creates lasting keepsakes for families and communities.

Chris emphasizes the value of media guides—both digital and print—as tools for fundraising, sponsorships, and long-term visibility. He also breaks down practical steps for coaches, from delegating responsibilities to building a sustainable content system that elevates program identity.

Chapters

Introduction and Growth of Story of the Season
Creating and Curating Content for Teams
Getting Players Involved and Creating a Strong Team Identity
Why Branding Matters in High School Athletics
How to Create a Media Guide for Your Sports Program
Fundraising Ideas and Ways to Connect with the Community
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Together a Media Guide

Learn more at: StoryOfTheSeason.com

Keith Grabowski X: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠

Chris Herman X: @StoryTheSeason

Win more games. Leverage tools like the QB Development platform and in-game analytics to sharpen your attack. Book a Demo with Modern Football Technology today.

The 10% Toolkit Coach and Coordinator is committed to bringing coaches the very best products and services in the game. Our 10% Toolkit is a trusted buyer’s guide—resources that carry our seal of certification and can help your program win more consistently.

CultureAI Resources Strengthen your program from the inside out. Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinatornetwork.com/cultureai

The workbook is packed with practical prompts, templates, and real-world examples designed to help coaches evaluate, align, and elevate their team’s culture. It’s a step-by-step playbook for leaders who want a stronger, more unified program all season long.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Analytics, Ai and In-Game Usage - Jonny Ulibarri, Asst HC/QB Coach, Union HS (OK) Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Coach and Coordinator Podcast Keith Grabowski sits down with Coach Johnny Ulibarri, assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach at Union High School in Oklahoma, to talk about how in-game analytics are reshaping coaching workflows. Coach Ulibarri explains how his staff committed to analytics from the start, tailored their software to fit their system, and built processes that make scouting, halftime adjustments, and post-game reviews faster and more effective.

They dig into how clear, data-driven insights improve communication on the headset, cut down on prep time, and even help with recruiting by giving players accurate, detailed evaluations. The discussion gives coaches a firsthand look at how modern tools can be put to work to prepare quicker, adjust smarter, and perform better when it matters most.

Chapters:

Introduction to In-Game Analytics

First Steps in Implementation

Adapting Software to Coaching Styles

Streamlining Data Collection

Scouting and Game Prep

Halftime Adjustments

Post-Game Workflows

Data Entry and Recruiting Impact

Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠- Johnny Ulibarri: ⁠@Coach_U13⁠

Win more games. Leverage tools like the QB Development platform and in-game analytics to sharpen your attack. ⁠Book a demo with Modern Football Technology⁠ today.

The 10% Toolkit Coach and Coordinator is committed to bringing coaches the very best products and services in the game. Our 10% Toolkit is a trusted buyer’s guide—resources that carry our seal of certification and can help your program win more consistently.

CultureAI Resources Strengthen your program from the inside out. Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at ⁠coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai⁠.

Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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