“Simple Isn't Easy"
Guest: Jamy Bechler – Leadership Consultant, Former Coach & AD, Host of Success Is a Choice Podcast
In this episode of Beyond Coaching, Rob sits down with Jamy Bechler—someone who's done it all: NAIA coach, high school AD, college interim AD, and now a full-time leadership consultant working with athletic departments around the country. Together they dive into the realities behind the leadership buzzwords.
Highlights Include:
- What it’s really like to step back into the AD chair after consulting from a distance
- The myth of the “perfect plan” and how Jamy handled a surprise full-team meeting
- Why leadership is simple, but not easy—especially when emotions are high
- A candid look at coachability and the lack of it—even among experienced coaches
- The impact of changing environments vs. changing kids (hint: the onus is still on us)
- Practical strategies for hiring when you don’t know the sport inside and out
- Jamy’s take on how responsibility and blame get confused in athletic leadership
- Why “Success Is a Choice” still matters—and how Jamy stole it from Rick Pitino
This conversation is packed with real-world application, tough truths, and encouragement for coaches navigating today’s complex athletic landscape. Whether you’re a young coach or a seasoned AD, this episode will challenge and equip you.
Resources Mentioned:
- Success Is a Choice by Rick Pitino
- Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
- Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty by Harvey Mackay
- Coach Wooden and Me by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Follow Jamy Bechler:
Twitter/X: @CoachBechler
Website: www.JamyBechler.com
