In this special episode, Casey’s business partner and long time friend, Dave Jensen sits down at the MW3 conference with Kalani Sitake, head coach of the BYU Cougars football team. Kalani, reflects on his upbringing sharing stories from his early years, the impact of his multicultural background, and his experiences with legendary figures like BYU coach LaVell Edwards and Nike founder Phil Knight.
He discusses how the relationships in his life have shaped his coaching philosophy, focusing on humility, empathy, and genuine connection. With powerful anecdotes of overcoming adversity, Kalani emphasizes the value of kindness and its profound impact on people’s lives.
Kalani shares his commitment to creating a positive environment where his players grow as athletes and individuals. He discusses his belief that true success is measured not just in victories but in the character and values instilled in those he mentors. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that shows how sports can transform lives and build stronger communities.
00:00 | Welcome, MW3 setup & Kalani’s intro
00:06 | Dave introduces Kalani’s journey & coaching career
01:46 | What excites Kalani most about BYU football right now
02:39 | Visiting Nike, meeting Phil Knight & LaVell Edwards stories
03:21 | The voicemail from LaVell that changed a 1–3 season
06:15 | Mission call, faith, and early mentoring from LaVell
07:19 | Growing up Tongan: divorce, moving, and feeling broken
10:11 | A BYU player’s hug that “fixed” a nine-year-old kid
12:09 | Kindness as a superpower & what really matters more than wins
13:44 | Spotting people who are hurting & choosing to reach out
15:16 | Family storytelling, heritage, and choosing happiness with little
17:21 | Discovering the commandment that changed how he honored his parents
18:41 | His father’s last day of work & a quiet act of integrity
22:06 | Meeting Timberley, raising kids, and the realities of coaching life
23:11 | How Timberley prepped him for the BYU head coach interview
25:33 | The line that sealed the BYU job (and who really wrote it)
27:03 | Lessons from Kyle Whittingham & gratitude to Utah
28:34 | Family, rivalry, legacy, and letting love lead
29:42 | Closing challenge: use your strengths to lift the world
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