Beyond The Bench

Aaron and Todd continue our discussion on intentional leadership development by focusing on how we do that outwardly with those that we are leading.  
To listen to more about Todd's 1 x 1 Coaching Mentoring Program go to …

In this episode Aaron leads our discussion wrapped around how to be intentional about personal leadership development.  

Contact us: Todd - …

This is Part 2 of a two part series as we talk about the article we published this past summer entitled "10 Things We've Learned in Many Years as an Athletic Administrator.
6. Start
7.  Adjust/Adapt/Overcome
8.  People …

This is the first of a two part series as we talk about the article we published this past summer entitled "10 Things We've Learned in Many Years as an Athletic Administrator.  
1.  Surround yourself with like-minded …

Beyond the Bench is back for Season 5.  

Aaron, Scott and Todd will start to have more discussions this season around leadership topics and then apply them to the world of education based athletics for administrators …

Season 4 - Episode 22 is a BTB NHSACA Special Edition as we visit again with Rob Miller from Proactive Coaching.  BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as a sponsor of the podcast. Check out their …

Enjoy this episode recorded live at the Oklahoma Athletic Directors Convention in Oklahoma City. Thank you to the OIAAA for having us at your convention. Thank You to Stephanie Blackwell (Union), John Hampton (Bishop …

Season 4 Episode 21 was recorded in the car as we headed to the Oklahoma Athletic Directors Convention in Oklahoma City.  We explore several topics as make our way through Kansas.  BTB is proud to have HomeTown …

Season 4 - Episode 20 is another BTB Special Edition with NEACA (@adminneaca) - Coach Tyler Brandt, Author of the book "The Missing Link Protocol …

Season 4 - Episode 19 is a BTB NHSACA Special Edition with Rob Miller from Proactive Coaching.  https://proactivecoaching.info/shoppac/

This years 2022 NHSACA National Conference will be held at Prairie Meadows Resort …

Season 4 - Episode 18 is a discussion with Dr. Scott Grant.  Dr. Grant is founder of Triple Threat Leadership (https://www.triplethreatleadership.com/) and is passionate about helping AD's navigate the world of Name, …

This BTB episode is recorded as part of the three popcorn workshop sessions that we did at the 2022 Iowa High School Athletic Directors Association …

Season 4 - Episode 16 is a discussion of timely issues this week.  School shootings (thoughts and prayers to Kaleb Stoppel and the Olathe East …

Season 4 - Episode 15 is a discussion on a couple of questions that we have had given to us and we talk about the handshake line debate that is …

Season 4 - Episode 14 features a discussion with Coach Erik Link (@coacheriklink), Tight Ends/Special Teams Coordinator for the University of MIssouri Tigers Football Team.   Erik offers some great insights to …

Season 4 - Episode 13 brings a great discussion with Coach Jim Johnson from Grace Athena High School in Rochester, New York.  Coach Johnson was the …

Episode 12 is our One Word episode with repeat guests from last season and one year ago.  Taylor Chapman @taylormchapman from Spencer, IA @spencertigerad and Michael Harrison @coachharrison1 from Ponte Vedra, FL …

Episode 11 is jam packed. 

Aaron's loss of a long time worker at Kennedy.  
Recap the NADC in Denver
What's Next for BTB
Our Next Podcast 
Christmas Memories and Lessons

 BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing …

This is the third in a series of BONUS episodes with Iowa's District AD of the Year winners for the 2021-2022 school year.  Troy Becker …

We experienced a few synching issues in our final edit with this episode.  We really were not talking over each other like it sounds a few times or have a long pause or two that takes place.  Thank You for sticking with …

This is the second in a series of BONUS episodes with Iowa's District AD of the Year winners for the 2021-2022 school year.  Al Lammers …

In this Episode we record live at the Wisconsin Athletic Directors Convention in Wisconsin Dells on Monday, November 8.  We had a great time and brought three Wisconsin AD's up to do live interviews and answer four …

In Episode 8 we have a great time with Jim Boehmer from Lake Mills (IA) High School.  Jim is a past president of the IHSADA, a highly successful …

In this BONUS episode Scott visits with Dr. Tim Baghurst (@baghurst).  Dr. Tim Baghurst is a Professor of Education and the Director of FSU COACH: Interdisciplinary Center for Athletic Coaching. He earned his doctorate …

In Episode 7 we welcomed Jake von Scherrer from the Educational AD Podcast.  You can listen to a new podcasts of his almost daily as well as new feature podcasts he recently started.  Jake is a great resource for AD's …

This is the first in a series of BONUS episodes with Iowa's District AD of the Year winners for the 2021-2022 school year.  Ken is the Athletic …

In Episode 6 the BTB team talks about some leadership lessons that we have learned recently.  BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as a sponsor of the  podcast. Check out their website at …

Enjoy this week's BONUS episode with Fred Smith (retired) from Michigan.  Fred Smith served schools for 38 years as a teacher, coach and …

In Episode 5 the BTB team talks about and offers some practical tips on handling the busyness of the AD job.  We also talk about our progress on our OBT from the last episode as well as some other fun conversations. …

Enjoy this week's BONUS episode with Nate Larsen from Logan View, NE High School in Hooper, Nebraska (@loganviewad). Todd talks with Nate and goes …

In Episode 4 the three headed BTB team talks about a few things to focus on as we begin the new school year.  We provide a challenge and look forward …

Enjoy this BONUS episode with D'Anne Kroemer, the AD from Pleasant Valley High School (@pvspartanpride).  Aaron conducts this interview and goes …

In this episode Scott and Aaron talk with Jeff Bissen (@jeff_bissen) from Glenwood (IA) High School (@glenwoodrams).  Jeff was a finalist for the …

Enjoy this BONUS episode with Bill Fitzgerald (@billyfitz54), the Executive Director of the NSIAAA as Scott talks through our four questions.  BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as a sponsor of the …

In this episode Scott and Todd talk with the legendary Dr. David Hoch.  Dr. Hoch has written numerous articles for the High School Today and …

Enjoy this special episode with Tim Pizzetti (@ghstigers_ad), the AD at Gilbert High School as we talk through four questions.  BTB is proud to have …

We start a new season of Beyond The Bench spending time with a new Athletic Director.  Matthew Welsh (@MatthewWelshAD) from @MadisonPlains in Ohio. Matthew has a great story and is going to be a fantastic administrator. …

We wrap up an abbreviated Season 3 talking with Scott about his transition from being a full-time AD to his new career path.  We reminisce and Scott …

In this episode we talk about getting better through the summer and offer some resources and thoughts on using some time with school out to improve …

In this week's episode we have an open and transparent conversation about job transition and change. BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as a sponsor of the podcast. Check out their website at …

In this episode we talk with leadership guru Jamy Bechler (@coachbechler).  Jamy shares his story as well as many insights into leadership and …

This episode was recorded live at the 2021 Iowa High School Athletic Directors Association State Convention.  We had a lot of fun recording through …

In this episode we wrap up our four part series discussing some highlights and what we learned from AD's, Coaches, Parents and Student Athletes surrounding the Educational Athletics Journey.
BTB is proud to have …

This episode is the fourth in a four part series entitled "The Educational Athletics Journey".  In this episode we hear from three students who provide a fantastic perspective as they have navigated the journey as a …

This episode is the third in a four part series entitled "The Educational Athletics Journey".  In this episode we hear from three parents who provide a great perspective as they have navigated the journey with their …

This episode is the second in a four part series entitled "The Educational Athletics Journey".  In this episode we hear from three veteran and outstanding coaches who make a difference in the lives of the athletes that …

In this episode we start a four 4 part series entitled "The Educational Athletics Journey".  We start the journey hearing from three veteran and outstanding athletic administrators.  We are thrilled to hear and learn …

In this episode we are joined by Taylor Chapman (@taylormchapman) from Spencer, IA and Michael Harrison (@coachharrison1) from Orange Park High …

Welcome to Season 3 of Beyond the Bench.  We open our new season with a review of how the winter is going.  What we've learned about leadership during the COVID pandemic and wrap up with a preview of a short series we …

In this special bonus edition of Beyond the Bench Scott, Aaron and Todd each share a special message to our listeners.  We look forward to connecting with you as we begin Season 3 in January.  Enjoy this special …

In this episode the three of us talk about Season Two, our top ranked episodes and some of our personal favorite podcasts and memories from the 40 episodes of the year.  Thank You to all of the Beyond the Bench …

In this episode we have our fifth of five podcasts visiting with IHSADA District Athletic Directors of the Year.  This week we visit with SE District …

In this episode we have our fourth of five podcasts visiting with IHSADA District Athletic Directors of the Year.  This week we visit with NW …

In this episode we have our third of five podcasts visiting with IHSADA District Athletic Directors of the Year.  This week we visit with NE District …

In this episode we have our second of five podcasts visiting with IHSADA District Athletic Directors of the Year.  This week we visit with Derek Fink …

In this episode we start our first of five podcasts visiting with IHSADA District Athletic Directors of the Year.  We start with Brian Petersen from …

What do you guys want to talk about?  "Anything but C&$#%!"  We (Scott, Aaron and Todd) talk about some "Ups" and some of the positive things we have experienced this fall.  It's a more light hearted, but nice …

In Episode 34 we talk with Greene County Counselor and mental health professional Kyle Kinne.  We talk about what we can do to help our students, coaches, and ourselves through these uncertain times.  Good insight from …

In this special episode we team up with the Globetrottin' AD's and the Off Duty AD's to talk about our podcasts and experiences.  Iowa connected with  Austria, Hungary and North Dakota.  Fun conversations with hosts …

In this episode we talk about how we are feeling after Week 1 and offer some thoughts on what we can do to combat the frustration, the stress and seemingly endless criticism.  It's not a pity party but it was a good …

In this episode Scott and Todd are joined by four high level AD's from across the state and we talk about what each school is doing in response to …

In this episode we talk with Business Coach, Speaker, Trainer and NBA Player Walter Bond @walterbond about leadership and the Shark Mindset. You can learn more at walterbond.com and pick up his new book "Swim". Buckle …

In this episode Aaron, Scott and Todd discuss the newly released Fall guidelines for returning to play and some of their plans for their respective …

In this episode we talk with one of the best AD's in Nebraska, Steve Throne (@mshsactivities) from Millard South. We discuss what pre-season parent meetings might look like, Millard South's "Pit Crew", The Patriot Way …

After a week off for the July 4 weekend we are joined by Jeff Linder @jtlinder of the Cedar Rapids Gazette. We discuss his recent article about …

In this episode we had an opportunity to talk with Sam Schill, who is one of the key drivers behind one of our sponsors, Varsity Bound.  We talk about the company and hit on some key leadership thoughts with Sam. You …

In this episode we have the second of our open and honest conversation with two great leaders.  Coach Byron Beaman from Prospect Hill Academy Charter …

In this episode we have an open and honest conversation with two great leaders.  Coach Byron Beaman from Prospect Hill Academy Charter School in …

In this episode we welcome and have a great discussion with Leader of Leaders and Public Speaker Mark Stephens to Beyond the Bench.  Mark is a former coach, Certified Jon Gordon speaker and trainer and Certified …

After a week off during the Memorial Day Weekend we talk about Iowa's return to the baseball and softball seasons (Yes, we were wrong on that one).  We have some fun discussions during our What's Up/What's Down and we …

In this episode we talk through a few of the newly released NFHS Guidelines and what it looks like as we move toward opening up our athletic and activity programs. BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) …

Dr. Jarrod Spencer @Jarrod_Spencer Founder of @MindOfAthlete joins us in this very informative episode to talk about mental health and well being of our athletes and ourselves. Be sure to check out Mind of the Athlete …

In this episode we talk with Marty and Vicki Burlsworth and Coach Tommy Tice about the movie "Greater" and the work that carries on through the Burlsworth Foundation in honor of the life lived by Brandon Burlsworth. …

In this episode we talk with NIAAA Associate Executive Director Phil Rison (@philrison10). Phil offers some great insights into the NIAAA and leadership. It is an inspirational and challenging podcast as we talk with …

In this episode we talk about some of the unique situations we are facing this spring. We then talk through Todd's 1x1 coaches mentoring program he started this year. BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing …

In this episode we talk with Chris Forman (@forman) SID with @boilerball and @purduemensgolf.  Chris offers some great insights into what he has …

In this episode we are joined by our significant others. The ladies that help, support and encourage us as AD's. This is a light hearted episode that is also filled with real wisdom from our wives. Disclaimer: No …

In this episode we talk about last week's John Maxwell's webinar on Leading Through A Crisis. There is a lot to unpack but there are many useful …

We are thrilled to welcome Coach Katie Gearlds @katiegearlds4 of Marian University @marianunivwbb to the podcast as she talks about coaching, leadership and life. Don't miss this one with one of the best coaches in the …

In this episode we talk about some things we have done and can do during this unprecedented time as we all deal with the fall out of COVID 19. BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as the official …

In this episode we talk through the results of the Sportsmanship Survey we put out last week. Thank You to the AD's who responded and contributed. …

In this episode we walk through the 52nd IHSADA Convention coming up at the end of March. BTB is proud to have HomeTown Ticketing (@hometowntix) as a sponsor of the BTB podcast. Check out their website at …

After a week away the boys are back in town (good tune). We don't make it to our main topic in this episode. We do talk about some spring time "tips and tricks", what's up/what's down, and Scott has a fantastic closing …

The BTB crew was happy to welcome the Founder and Co-CEO of HomeTown Ticketing Nate Nale. We had a great discussion with Nate wrapped around these questions. 1) Birth of HomeTown Ticketing 2) Effective characteristics …

The BTB crew took the weekend off to enjoy the Super Bowl so this is a replay of Season 1 - Episode 12 we recorded with Nick Easley on February 26, …

In this reflective episode Todd, Scott and Aaron pay tribute to Kobe Bryant after learning of his tragic death on Sunday, January 26, 2020. We discuss his career, what made him a great player and discuss a few Kobe …

In this episode Todd, Aaron and Scott talk through four questions from three listeners. Thank you to Chris Lancaster (Vincennes, IN/South Knox HS), Brent Buttjer (DC-G HS) and Jordan Reindl (Northwood-Kinsett HS) for …

In this episode we had the privilege of speaking with Ira Childress from Gulliver Schools in Miami, FL.  Ira is a passionate and driven AD with a …

In this episode we talk through our experiences at NADC 2019 (21:40) and our One Word for 2020 (45:45). The numbers in parentheses represent the time in the podcast where we begin that discussion. Thank You for …

Enjoy conversations with Kevin Kalver (HS AD Network), Nick DeForest (Vienna, Austria), Dave Horner (Belgrade, Serbia), Steve Robinson (Rocky River, NC), Brad Rose (WDM Valley, IA), Darryl Nance (Greenville, SC), Duane …

In this episode Todd talks with Adam DeJoode about his passion and the research he has done in regards to the implementation of the shot clock in Iowa. 1) We discuss his background and why that has led him to be so …

In Episode 40 of the podcast we are joined by Dr. Chris Hobbs and have a fantastic conversation. You will find Chris to be very energetic, intentional and inspiring. He leads an incredible program in Florida and we will …

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In this episode we had the privilege of speaking with the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Executive Director Jean Berger. She and her staff …

This episode was recorded live at the WDM Marriott with Dale Ludwig from Clear Lake. We talk about 1) Sleep and how to manage it (or lack of it), The …

In this episode the three of us talk about our fall. We talk about our favorite memory from the fall season and then discuss one thing we may look to do a bit differently next year or in the near future. Thank you for …

In this episode we are joined by Jay Hammes of Safe Sport Zone. We talk about the development of Safe Sport Zone, current trends and Jay offers an abundance of thought provoking tips and suggestions to help keep our …

In this episode we talk with Wes Simmons (@WesleyCSimmons), CEO and national presenter for 3Dimensional Coaching (@3DCoaches). It's a powerful and …

In this episode we talk with Rob Seymour (@robseymour71), Athletic Director in Fishers, Indiana (@FHSTigers). We learn about Rob, some of the good …

In this episode we talk through eight different questions, have some fun and learn some more about each other. …

In this episode we talk about how to deal with a new boss. Thanks to Josh Porter from Clarinda for the question and we have a leadership discussion on a new podcast Aaron found. 

Links 

Greene County Play Doh Drive 

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In this episode we talk with Erin Kirtley (@AD_Kirtley) from Panorama High School in Panora, IA.  Erin is in her 7th year as the Activities Director …

In this episode Aaron and Todd review and recap a podcast done by Jon Gordon, on his Positive U Podcast, with Nick Nurse, coach of the NBA Champion Toronto Raptors. The podcast can be heard here: …

Enjoy a look back at a few of our previous episodes. Segment 1-Dealing with the Unexpected; Segment 2-Mitch Osborn; Segment 3-Nick Easley; Segment 4-Brent Buttjer; Segment 5-Coach and Parent Balance. BTB is proud to …

In this episode Scott, Aaron and Todd talk about the start of the year and the many responsibilities and things we have to do to get ready for the start of the year.

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In this episode we have our first show with two guests. We are joined by Bellevue, IA AD Dave Wright and Lewie Curtis from the IHSAA. We have a great …

In this episode Todd and Scott sit down with current IHSADA President Jeremy Christiansen in Omaha. We talk about leadership, balancing responsibilities, staff recruitment and retention and a few other things along the …

Welcome to Episode 25 of Beyond The Bench. It's a milestone so the three AD's from Iowa talk about the guests they have had on (all have been terrific) and talk about some of the take aways we have had from them. We …

In this episode we talk with local sports editor Brandon Hurley who has been covering the NBA Finals and was on the Nick Nurse beat. We talk about his experiences in Toronto, the things that make Nick Nurse a great …

In this special episode Aaron and Todd are joined by Lewis Curtis, the Director of Officials and Wrestling Administrator for the Iowa High School …

In this episode Todd goes one on one with Taylor Chapman from Spencer, IA. Taylor is completing his first year as a high school AD and talks about …

After a two week break for a Gordon vacation the boys are back in town. In this episode our main topic is Coach/Parent Balance and how we can help it …

After a week off for Easter we talk about what's happened with a former guest and the Drake Relays. We debut a new segment and then dive into a lively discussion about upping our game in the evaluation process and …

In this week's episode we celebrate the beauty of sport and some of the best moments of the past week. It leads us to say "I'm Still In". Aaron talks …

In this episode we are joined by Pella AD Dale Otte. We talk about youth sports structure, what we have seen work and share some thoughts on helping to promote a positive relationship with youth programs and coaches. …

In this episode our main focus is talking about preseason coaches meetings. What format is used and what are some "must haves". We wrap up the …

After a week off the guys are back live from the IHSADA Convention. We are pleased to have Brent Buttjer from Ankeny High School join us. We talk …

In this episode Aaron, Scott and Todd talk about some of the favorite quotes from a few of our listeners and one of their own as well. We'll look to …

In this episode of Beyond the Bench we unpack a lot on the subject of Character Driven Coaching and Leadership.  We discuss parts of two different articles and a video (audio) clip.  The titles and links are listed …

You won't want to miss this weeks guest is Nick Easley. From Newton HS to IWCC to preferred walk on at the University of Iowa and the 2019 Outback …

In this week's episode we are joined by Jason L. Parker, AD from Sapulpa, OK. Jason has a wonderful story, is passionate about leadership and …

In this episode our main topic is sportsmanship. Join us as we peel a layer off and talk about the different roles and responsibilities we all play …

In this weeks episode we give some thoughts on the Super Bowl and some thoughts on multi sport athletes. Then, we talk about exciting coaches …

In this episode Aaron, Scott and Todd talk with sports editor J.R. Ogden from the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Hear his fascinating story and hear insights …

In this special episode Aaron and Todd are joined by one of Iowa's all time best. Basketball coach and Athletic Director Mitch Osborn from Harlan, Iowa. We talk with Mitch about his 35 year journey, what has helped …

In this episode Scott, Aaron and Todd talk about a recent cake auction that Scott just did in Ankeny (Yum!). We then talk about our expectations of our coaches and ways we can support them. We then wrap up talking about …

Thanks for joining us. Today we meet Todd Gordon and learn about his 34 year journey in education and then talk about if our role of an Athletic …

Todd flies solo in this episode and talks about: 1) Christmas Eve Memories and 2) How long would Santa survive on the North Pole? Merry Christmas …

LIVE FROM SAN ANTONIO AND THE 49TH NATIONAL ATHLETIC DIRECTORS CONVENTION. In this episode we talk about the first 24 hours of the convention including: 1) Opening speaker Dr Rick Rigsby. 2) Scott's attending of a …

Welcome to Episode 2 of Beyond the Bench. Three AD's talking about their week, their job, the challenges and the joys of what we do. In this episode we talk about: 1) The highlights of this past week and the lessons …

Welcome to the initial episode of Beyond The Bench. Three AD's talking about their week, their job, the challenges and the joys of what we do. In today's episode Aaron and Todd Talk about: 1) The winter season and some …