Stay ConnectedUnlock the world of track & field coaching with The Gill Connections Podcast! Host Mike Cunningham brings you inspiring stories, real conversations, and coaching insights from leaders at every level. Discover a new coach’s interview every Monday. Plus, don’t miss the Ted Talks of track/field podcasts with our NEW Gill1918 Project episodes Tuesday-Sunday — short, powerful lessons from top coaches to help you grow on and off the track.
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From Track Star to Inspiring Coach: Jeremy's Legacy in Athletics
In this episode, we journey through the life of Jeremy Wariner, a distinguished quarter-miler who transitioned from setting records on the track to shaping the next generation of athletes as a high school coach. From his early passion for the 400m, facing challenges and celebrating victories at Baylor, to now imparting his wisdom at Liberty Christian School, Jeremy's story is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the power of mentorship. Discover the unique camaraderie at Baylor, the core values that guided him, and how he's now using his experiences to inspire young athletes. Dive into an episode that not only celebrates Jeremy's achievements but also his commitment to nurturing future champions.
Check us out on YouTube, Twitter, GillAthletics.com, and more. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
Quick bonus episode today to introduce you to the organization women4women. This important group describes themselves as a group of track & field coaches in Minnesota, Wisconsin and North Dakota looking to develop an ongoing Women for Women network through the State Track and Field Coaches Associations to strengthen female coaches and their connections.
Minnesota founder Meghan Orgeman of Alexandria Area (MN) High School joins us today to talk about the inspiration behind the organization, why it's important, and how you can learn more.
"If she can see her, she can be her," -Meghan Orgeman (morgeman@alexschools.org).
You can learn more about their free clinic by going to mshsca.org/w4w which takes place on January 25th. Other ways to get in touch:
Twitter: @mwomen4w
Instagram: @tfw4w
Lead off leg: Mike Ford of 400m U
In this riveting episode, we sit down with Mike Ford, the Head Track and Field Coach for Baylor University. We peel back the layers of his track journey, exploring the strategies, mental games, and intricacies of track and field, particularly in the relay races. Mike shares his personal experiences as a leadoff leg, shedding light on the psychological aspects of running and the bonds formed between teammates.
Discover how holding a baton influenced Mike's performance, his academic journey at Baylor, and his decision to step away from a professional running career. Mike also touches upon his surprising transition into coaching and the business side of track and field. This episode delves deep into the challenges track and field coaches face, from managing individual athletes' emotions to navigating the complex world of sports financing.
Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or just a sports enthusiast, this episode provides a unique lens into the world of track and field and the passion that drives those in it. Join us for an unforgettable conversation with one of the sport's leading figures.
Check us out on YouTube, Twitter, GillAthletics.com, and more. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
From the Javelin Runway to a Career at Gill: The Unconventional Path of Tim Glover
This episode delves into the riveting journey of one of America's top javelin throwers Tim Glover. Tim shares his journey from mastering the javelin to his initial position at Gill as a construction equipment specialist. Discover how Tim's track and field prowess intertwined with the skills needed for a demanding role at Gill, one of the leaders in the athletics equipment industry. While many envision a straightforward trajectory for athletes, Tim's path paints a picture of versatility and adaptability. From the intricacies of his work projects to the parallels between his sporting discipline and daily tasks, his story showcases how the world of sports can uniquely prepare one for challenges in the corporate world. Tune in to uncover the symbiotic relationship between professional athletics and the track equipment domain, and how one individual seamlessly bridged the two.
Check us out on YouTube, Twitter, GillAthletics.com, and more. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
Gill Connections host Mike Cunningham recently joined the crew at Brandon's Sports Talk for a quick interview about the podcast. Mike talks about why Gill Athletics started the podcast, his most memorable guest, dream guests we haven't had on the show yet, and more.
Thank you Brandon Sports Talk for having Mike on the show. If you want to check out more interviews from Brandon including Team USA javelin thrower Maggie Malone, as well as track coaches from Georgia Southern, Emporia State, Pittsburg State and more check him out at youtube.com/brandonssportstalk
Want to have an exploratory conversation about
YOUR track equipment needs?
Connect with us:
Host Mike Cunningham on Twitter: @mikecunningham
Email: sales@gillathletics.com
Phone: 800-637-3090
Twitter: @GillAthletics
Instagram: @GillAthletics1918
Facebook: facebook.com/gillathletics
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/gillathletics/
From Track Coach to Podcast Prodigy: Mike Cunningham's Journey
In this special 'Flip the Script' episode of our podcast, host Todd Lane, a renowned track coach at LSU, takes over the mic to interview the regular host, Mike Cunningham. With 238 episodes under his belt, Mike shares his incredible journey from a track coach to a nationally recognized podcaster. Dive into this engaging conversation that reveals Mike's path to podcasting success, his inspirations, and the evolution of his show.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
Podcasting Genesis: Uncover how Mike's admiration for Joe Rogan's diverse interviewing style sparked his interest in podcasting.
Early Challenges: Learn about the initial hurdles Mike faced, from technical issues to finding his first guest.
Guest Diversity: Explore the variety of guests Mike has hosted, including track coaching legends, industry insiders, and leadership thought provokers.
Technological Evolution: Witness Mike's transition from recording on a phone to a professional podcast studio setup.
Teaching Podcasting: Discover how Mike's experience led him to teach podcasting, sharing his knowledge with others.
🌟 Why Listen:
Whether you're a fan of track and field, aspiring podcaster, or someone who enjoys stories of personal growth and innovation, this episode offers a unique perspective on the world of podcasting intertwined with the realm of athletics.
🔗 Subscribe and Share:
Celebrate this unique 'Flip the Script' episode by sharing it with fellow podcast enthusiasts and track and field community members!
Check out past episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
#PodcastingJourney #TrackAndField #MikeCunningham #InspiringStories #PodcastEvolution #FlipTheScript #LSUTrackCoach #DiverseGuests
Defying the Norms with Dustin Allen of Cuthbertson (NC) HS
Join Mike Cunningham in an enlightening episode of the Connections Podcast, featuring the remarkable journey of Dustin Allen, the head coach of Cuthbertson Cavaliers. Dustin, with his unconventional entry and success in the track and field coaching realm, shares his story, breaking barriers and defying the norms. You'll be astounded to hear this National Coach of the Year never ran track...ever! This episode is not merely a narrative of Dustin's career but also a testament to the possibilities that lie in passion, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt in the world of track and field. Whether you're a coach, an athlete, or a sports enthusiast, Dustin’s insights provide a fresh perspective, offering valuable takeaways and inspiring listeners to explore paths less trodden. Tune in and connect with the stories that shape the track and field world, only on the Connections Podcast.
Check us out on YouTube, Twitter, GillAthletics.com, and more.
Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038)
Balancing Football and Track: A Coach's Inspiring Journey
In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, we delve into the world of coaching with a remarkable guest, Chris Arthurs. He's a coach who wears two hats with equal passion and dedication - football and track. Join host Mike Cunningham as we explore the intriguing dynamics of coaching both sports and the valuable lessons learned along the way.
We set the stage for an exciting two-part series aimed at debunking the myth that you can't successfully coach both football and track simultaneously. Our guest, Chris Arthurs, is the Head Track Coach for Naperville North (IL) HS and the Defensive Coordinator for Naperville North Football, making him the perfect embodiment of this philosophy.
Chris reflects on his coaching influences, beginning with his father, who continues to coach on the defensive staff. Chris shares, "My father laid the groundwork for a positive coach-father relationship." His high school coaches, Coach Ron Muhitch and Coach Ken Halberg, also played a pivotal role in shaping his coaching philosophy, emphasizing positivity, encouragement, and pushing athletes to be their best.
Chris recounts a crucial moment during his junior year when he decided to pursue coaching as a career. He was inspired by his high school coaches' ability to provide exceptional experiences for their athletes, fostering a passion for helping young adults become their best selves. Chris says, "It laid the groundwork for how I wanted to live my life."
The conversation explores how coaching football and track complement each other in Chris's life. When asked if he's a football coach who coaches track or a track coach who coaches football, Chris replies, "I believe they both serve each other well." He discusses how the strategic aspects of football, such as game planning and opponent preparation, enrich his coaching repertoire.
This episode unravels the intricate balance of coaching two sports and delves into the invaluable life lessons Chris Arthurs has learned from his coaching influences. He emphasizes that coaching is about building strong relationships and helping individuals become their best.
Chris concludes the episode with this quote: "Coaching is about providing amazing experiences within the sport and helping individuals search for and achieve their best."
Join us on the Gill Connections Podcast for this thought-provoking episode that celebrates the dedication and passion of coaches like Chris, who shape the future of young athletes. Whether you're a coach, an athlete, or simply interested in coaching, this episode promises insights and inspiration that transcend the playing field.
Check us out on YouTube, Twitter, GillAthletics.com, and more.
Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038)
As we prepare for the 2023 Gill Connections LIVE podcast at USTFCCCA, let's look back at last year's guests. We'll be highlighting one guest each day until December 11th when we'll go LIVE again on YouTube at 5:30 Denver time.
Bookmark this URL and catch us LIVE in Denver for the 2023 USTFCCCA Convention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa4A8nzYnYk
As we prepare for the 2023 Gill Connections LIVE podcast at USTFCCCA, let's look back at last year's guests. We'll be highlighting one guest each day until December 11th when we'll go LIVE again on YouTube at 5:30 Denver time.
Bookmark this URL and catch us LIVE in Denver for the 2023 USTFCCCA Convention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa4A8nzYnYk
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