In this short podcast, Founder and CEO of Growing Leaders and Habitudes,  Dr.Tim Elmore joins me on the campus of MRA. He gives us a brief story of how Growing Leaders started as well as shines some light on the buzz word "culture" and how we can implement and apply it to our teams, classrooms, and organizations. 

Tim also shares a powerful story about a member of the Kansas City Royals baseball team.

Season 7 Episode 2: Growing Leaders with Dr. Tim Elmore

In this episode, John sits down with the former Co-Offensive Coordinator for the MRA Patriots and current Head Football Coach for the Lamar School Raiders, Jacob Land. This episode was recorded on Sept. 9, 2021 when the Patriots reached unfamiliar territory with a 1-3 start after finishing the 2020 season as undefeated state champions. Listen to the discussion on how the phrase "NEVER QUIT" helped the Patriots finish as the 2021 state champions.

This episode is based off a Motivation Monday written by John Torrey back in 2019.

Season 7 Episode 8: Building to Last with Jacob Land

John and John dive into a concept similar to BCD. Ask yourself, if your coaching style was an automobile what type would it be and why? Find out why you don't want to be a BMW in this episode.

The Culture Classroom is sponsored by ProQuickDraw. Visit. them at www.proquickdraw.com and request a FREE trial. Tell them you heard it on the Culture Classroom for a discount code.

Season 8 Episode 5: Don't Be a BMW

This is the fourth episode of the Surf's Up Series. JT and John meet for the first time in person. They have been doing this podcast for the past five years - this next five episodes they are recording from the Florida Gulf Coast on family vacation.

Who is the greatest competitor you have ever seen? 
Babe Ruth, Usain Bolt, Tiger Woods, Michael Phelps, Tom Brady?

The argument could be endless - What about Michael Jordan?

In this episode we look at Golf with MJ:
1. Wear Nikes

2. Jordan only plays 36 holes

3. Jordan ONLY plays for money!

4. DO NOT putt Jordan for money!

5. DO NOT give Jordan mulligans!

Jordan once said, "I don't have a gambling problem, I have a competition problem." - LIFE is the greatest competitor.

Enjoy these five episodes and stay tuned after the message for some "extra credit" in episode 3, 4, and 5 as JT and John get on a personal level about some of the differences they have when it comes to life.

Follow us on Twitter:
Coach Torrey  @mistertorrey
Coach Weaver @CoachWeaverMRA

Pro Quick Draw is a powerful plug-in used on Microsoft Visio & PowerPoint for coaches to organize, format, and export playbooks, scout cards & presentations efficiently. Visit them at www.proquickdraw.com to request your FREE Trial Today! @PQDSystem on Twitter.

Surf's Up Series: Episode 4: The Jordan Rules

We all have routines each morning. The Head Football Coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers uses this unique method to initiate intentional relationships within the Steelers organization. 

Establishing a routine is important for several reasons, contributing to both physical and mental well-being. Here are just a few reasons why having a routine can be beneficial:

Increased Productivity: Organizes your day, prioritizing tasks.

Time Management: Efficiently allocates time, reducing procrastination.

Reduced Stress: Provides predictability and order, lowering stress levels.

Better Health: Includes time for exercise, nutrition, and adequate sleep.

Improved Sleep Patterns: Consistent sleep times promote better quality sleep.

Formation of Habits: Routines facilitate the development of positive habits.

Enhanced Focus: Dedicates specific times for focused tasks, improving concentration.

Achievement of Goals: Provides a framework for working towards and achieving goals.

Follow us on Twitter:
Coach Weaver @CoachWeaverMRA | Coach Torrey  @mistertorrey
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The Culture Classroom is powered by Pro Quick Draw. PQD is a powerful plug-in used on Microsoft Visio & PowerPoint for coaches to organize, format, and export playbooks, scout cards & presentations efficiently. Visit them at www.proquickdraw.com to request your FREE Trial Today! @PQDSystem on Twitter.

Season 12, Episode 2: Mike Tomlin's Daily Lap

The ability to bounce back, adapt, and recover in the face of adversity, challenges, or significant stress. It involves the capacity to withstand and navigate through difficult situations, setbacks, or traumatic experiences without being overwhelmed or giving in to despair. Resilient individuals often demonstrate a combination of mental toughness, emotional strength, adaptability, and a positive mindset. We look at how to get back to green. We also talked about it at length in the Season 6: Stay Green Link to Podcast Here: https://soundcloud.com/user-318237258/season-6-episode-5-stay-green-with-john-and-jt?si=5318f895826e4e8686b28dff3a9de357&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Follow us on Twitter:
Coach Weaver @CoachWeaverMRA | Coach Torrey  @mistertorrey
∙
The Culture Classroom is powered by Pro Quick Draw. PQD is a powerful plug-in used on Microsoft Visio & PowerPoint for coaches to organize, format, and export playbooks, scout cards & presentations efficiently. Visit them at www.proquickdraw.com to request your FREE Trial Today! @PQDSystem on Twitter.

Season 12, Episode 6: Recovery and Renewal: Getting Back to Green Through Resilience

What does it take to BE A CHAMPION? Coach Weaver talked to the MRA Football team today about what it looks like when you surrender the outcome. This is the second part of the Focus 4 or Concentration Quadrant. We also discuss the dangers of just focusing on winning. 

Follow us on Twitter:
Coach Weaver @CoachWeaverMRA | Coach Torrey  @mistertorrey
∙
The Culture Classroom is powered by Pro Quick Draw. PQD is a powerful plug-in used on Microsoft Visio & PowerPoint for coaches to organize, format, and export playbooks, scout cards & presentations efficiently. Visit them at www.proquickdraw.com to request your FREE Trial Today! @PQDSystem on Twitter.

Season 13, Episode 4: Be A Champion

In this episode we discuss we explore the powerful concept of "Surrender the Outcome." Many athletes, coaches, and competitors focus so much on results that they lose sight of the journey. But true success comes from preparation, effort, and trusting the process—without being consumed by the end result.

We discuss how embracing this mindset can free athletes from unnecessary pressure, allowing them to perform at their best. Through stories of perseverance, faith, and resilience, we highlight how letting go of control over outcomes can lead to breakthroughs on and off the field.

Join us as we unpack what it means to fully commit, give your best effort, and trust that whatever happens is part of a greater plan. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or fan, this episode is packed with insights that can help you shift your perspective and find peace in the process.

Ballfrog was built by high school parents and sports fanatics. 

Our goal has never changed: empower athletic departments, parents, students, and the local community to stay connected and grow together. Visit them at www.ballfrog.com and request a demo. 

Season 13, Episode 7: Surrender the Outcome

In this episode, we dive into the concept of success and why time is the key ingredient in achieving it. We explore the idea that true success isn’t just about talent or luck—it’s about the time you invest in your craft, relationships, and personal growth.

We look at the three S's (Survival, Success, and Significance)

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, student, or professional, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you measure success. It’s not about overnight achievements—it’s about the hours, days, and years of effort that build greatness.

Tune in as we break down why T-I-M-E is the ultimate secret to success. 

Season 13, Episode 8: How Do You Spell Success? T-I-M-E

Season 14, Episode 1: The Art of Winning

Is there a moment that instantly takes you back to your 10- or 12-year-old self? In this episode, we rewind to 1991 and 1992—two unforgettable years in baseball history—with the Minnesota Twins and the Atlanta Braves taking center stage in back-to-back World Series. But this isn't just about baseball.

It’s about moments that matter—those flashes of time that stick with us for a lifetime. Whether it was staying up past bedtime to watch extra innings, or hearing the roar of the crowd through the TV, these experiences shaped who we are.

We reflect not just on the past, but also on the present:
Are we creating those kinds of moments today?
For our kids, our coworkers, our friends—every interaction is a chance to build lasting impact.

Step into the nostalgia, but don’t stop there—let’s talk about making moments that matter now.

Season 14, Episode 2: Moments that Matter

Because not every group is really a team.

Welcome to Culture Classroom, the podcast for coaches and leaders who want to build real, connected, high-performing teams. We talk about what actually makes a team work—shared leadership, accountability, flexible roles, and common goals—without the fluff.

Think of it like this: geese flying in that classic “V” formation or in the hockey movie: The Mighty Ducks their flying V formation to score the winning goal in hockey - know how to work together to go farther. Your team can too.

Tune in for stories, strategies, and down-to-earth advice you can use right away—whether you’re leading on the field, in the locker room, or anywhere you want to build a stronger culture.

Season 14, Episode 3: Make YOUR Team Work

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of coaches in today’s sports landscape and the growing need for a deeper commitment to athletes’ mental well-being and psychological health. Coaching is no longer just about drills, strategy, and physical performance—it’s about understanding the whole person.

We discuss why it’s critical for coaches to move beyond outdated, dehumanizing methods that overlook the complex, vulnerable humans working in front of them. Athletes rely on their coaches not only for guidance toward excellence in sport but also for emotional support, empathy, psychological safety, and mentorship.

The best coaches know how to blend physical training with mental resiliency, helping athletes perform at their highest level while also caring for their emotional and psychological needs. In this episode, we talk about the essential tools and mindset coaches need to support the whole athlete—not just the competitor on game day.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on what it means to truly coach the person, not just the player.

Season 14, Episode 4: Mindset Coaching (Part 1)

In today’s episode of The Culture Classroom, we sit down with Brad Cox, the Athletic Director at West Point High School in West Point, Mississippi. We dive into the tremendous success the Green Wave have had in football and explore how Brad measures success across the entire athletic department.

Brad’s journey from basketball coach to principal, and now athletic director, provides a unique perspective on leadership and building a winning culture.

Stay tuned for this insightful episode, brought to you by Ballfrog! Visit them at www.ballfrog.com and request a free demo from John Craig at 615-578-0547.

Links to the genius marketing from Brad on rising money for the championship football rings. 
Jail or Bail Fundraiser
https://www.facebook.com/61559499851096/videos/952645850413930
https://www.facebook.com/61559499851096/videos/9378129278967669 

The AD Series: Leading the Charge with West Point High School Athletic Director Brad Cox

In this episode of The Culture Classroom, we sit down with Michelle York, Athletic Director at St. George’s Independent School in Collierville, Tennessee, to talk about the purpose behind athletic administration. Michelle shares why stepping into this field is a choice rooted in passion — and why her favorite part of the job is working with parents to connect them with the athletic department, build trust, and align around a shared mission and vision. 

She explains the role of a “Chief Reminding Officer” in keeping the “why” front and center, and offers valuable advice for aspiring athletic directors: surround yourself with great people, and never lead without a mentor. Whether you’re an administrator, coach, or leader in any field, Michelle’s insights will challenge and inspire you to lead with clarity, connection, and purpose.

Stay tuned for this insightful episode, brought to you by Ballfrog! Visit them at www.ballfrog.com and request a free demo from John Craig at 615-578-0547 or email him at john@ballfrog.com

The AD Series: Purpose Driven with St. George's Athletic Director Michelle York

In this episode of The Culture Classroom, we sit down with Jonathan Adams, Athletic Director at Westminster Christian Academy in Huntsville, Alabama. A former collegiate baseball umpire, Jonathan took an uncommon path back to his alma mater — one that shaped his unique perspective on leadership and athletic administration.

He shares why effective leadership begins with modeling the standards you expect and reminds us that culture is defined not by what you say, but by what you allow. Jonathan explains why head coaches in his department are called program directors — leaders responsible for the full development of their sport, from youth to varsity. At the heart of Westminster’s approach is the Earn Everything mentality, a mindset that demands accountability, resilience, and consistency from coaches, athletes, and parents alike.

Jonathan also outlines the Wildcats’ culture, vision, and purpose statement while highlighting the qualities every athletic director should pursue: clarity, accountability, humility, and the discipline to surround yourself with great people.

This is a powerful conversation on leadership, culture, and building athletic programs that last.

The AD Series: Model the Standard with Westminster Athletic Director Jonathan Adams (Part 1)

In this second installment of our AD series with Jonathan Adams, we dive into the role of an Athletic Director as a leader of coaches. Jonathan shares how the challenges of Covid became a surprising blessing, giving his department the opportunity to take a deep dive into building a sustainable culture rooted in core values, a clear mission, and a compelling vision.

He also breaks down his interview process, emphasizing that hiring isn’t just about resumes and experience—it’s about building intentional relationships and finding the right cultural fit.

Get ready for an insightful conversation on how to empower coaches, strengthen leadership, and create a thriving athletic department.

AD Series: Culture, Coaches, and Core Values with Westminster AD Jonathan Adams (Part 2)

In this episode we sit down with the Head Football Coach at Coronado High School, Kurt Hines. We dig deep into understanding and finding the POWER of your WHY. Coach Hines shared some life changing stories from his childhood and shares some advice for teachers and coaches on knowing the power of their WHY.

Season 3 Episode 3: Knowing Your WHY with Kurt Hines

In this episode, we sit down with the Head Football Coach at Savannah High School, Randy Schrader. He delivers a fantastic message on the places he's coached, and how he keeps lasting impressions on his athletes. Finally, he discusses his #BeAn11

Season 3 Episode 4 Be An 11 with Randy Schrader

In this episode we sit down and talk with the Head Football Coach at North Forney, and the Author of Culture Defeats Strategy and Culture Defeats Strategy 2.  We discuss the importance of building team chemistry through Leadership Academy's and owning your team's culture with intentionality.

Season 4 Episode 3:  Intentional Culture Matters with Randy Jackson

In this episode listen to the life story of how PJ Hedrington over came the ACEs in his life. PJ has been a high school head football coach and teacher in Iowa for several years. He is also served on the Iowa Football Coaches Association (IFCA) as a board member. He is currently an assistant coach at Drake University.

Season 4 Episode 5: From ACEs To Achievement with PJ Hedrington

In this episode we sit down with Mental Performance Certified and 3D Coach Ken Vigdal. He takes us through his football program culture journey and how they intentionally built it from the ground up.

Season 4 Episode 6: This Old Hat with Ken Vigdal

In this Episode we talk with QB Coach Ron Mckie Jr. We discuss everything from the evolution of the spread offense to philosophy, and building trust inside position groups.

Season 4 Episode 9: Do The Happy Dance with Ron Mckie

In this episode, we interview J.P. Nerbun who is a mentor, writer, coach, and sports consultant. He founded the Thrive On Challenge, he has served coaches, athletes, and parents across the world, at every level and in every sport you can name. Regardless of their sport, level, or country, He is confident that all coaches need support. Nerbun enjoys walking with them on their journeys to becoming better leaders and build a transformational culture. Listen to his positive message for encouraging coaches today.

Season 5 Episode 2:  Calling Up with J.P. Nerbun

In this episode we sit down with the running backs coach at James Madison University, Matt Merritt. He dives into his UNCOMMON culture with his unit at JMU. 

We also discuss his time at Ohio State, when the Buckeyes won the 2015 national championship, the 2016 Fiesta Bowl and a Big Ten championship. They also made an appearance in the 2014 Orange Bowl. He helped coach wide receivers, running backs, special teams and the defensive scout team.

Learn what it means to be UNCOMMON inside the RB unit at James Madison.

Season 5 Episode 3: Being UNCOMMON with Matt Merritt

In this episode we sit down with Author, US National Team Coach, and Defensive Coordinator at Palmetto Ridge, PJ Gibbs. Coach Gibbs is the Author of The Right Defense For Your Program Volume 1 & 2. Listen to PJ discuss the ins and outs of his defensive philosophy. 
The defensive coordinator at Palmetto Ridge High School in Naples, Gibbs has self-published a book of the lessons he’s gathered during his nearly three decades as a player and coach. “The Right Defense For Your Program” is live on Amazon and is available in paperback or electronically.

Season 5 Episode 4: Black Shirt Defense with PJ Gibbs

Culture Clips will be a series of mini-podcasts ranging in topics with special guests. We will address and ask hard hitting questions about building, establishing, and maintaining culture within your organization. 

In this episode we discuss three aspects that student-athletes, business owners and educators face on a daily basis - Breathe, Into, and Good. Listen to Coach Torrey and Coach Weaver outline this acronym on the first episode of Culture Clips.

Season 5: CULTURE CLIPS: Episode 1: Get B.I.G.

In this episode we look at the 1985 Bears Super Bowl XX victory, and how bittersweet a moment was was for arguably the best running back in the NFL. 

We dive into the question of ...
Is YOUR success more important than the TEAM's success?
... Consider Walter Payton. 

When the Bears beat the Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX "Sweetness" didn't celebrate with his team in the locker room. Instead, Payton locked himself in a broom closet, angry because he didn't have a TD.

Season 5: CULTURE CLIPS: Episode 3: BITTERSWEETNESS

In this episode we sit down and discuss the R Cycle. Cade Carter an All State Football player, and Team Captain discusses his experiences and challenges in high school.

Season 5: CULTURE CLIPS: Episode: 4 "R"areBreed with Cade Carter

Learn how to create a winning culture in the weight room and the importance of having a full time strength and conditioning coach in high school.

Season 6 Episode 2: Physically Cultured with George Adams

In this podcast we discuss two main ideas we took away from our latest episode "Keys to the Kingdom" with Darrick Ware. Let us know your thoughts. Reach out to us on Twitter @CultureClass19.

Culture Closure: Keys to the Kingdom with Darrick Ware

Learn how to "Stay Green" with JT and John. We discuss how to prioritize where your attention goes. We look at what GETS your attention vs. what DESERVES your attention. This episode has a Google Slide presentation associated with it so it can help you present this to your team or organization.

We pose the question ... Have you ever had a bad day? - or - Was it a bad day that you milked all day? Find out more about staying Green in this episode. 

You can find this Google Slide @CultureClass19 on Twitter.

CULTURE CLIPS: Season 6 Episode 1: Stay Green

This is BK's second time to visit us in the classroom. In this podcast, we dive into BK's story. He revisits his journey with Focus 3. We also discuss the new horizons that are coming with Daily Discipline. Lastly he leaves us with his signature line for 2021 and explains how "Everything is Training for Something"

Season 7 Episode 1: What are you training for? with Brian Kight

Welcome to the Culture Classroom, a podcast FOR teachers and coaches, BY teachers and coaches. Listen to top leaders, innovators, and influencers share their stories about how intentional culture elevates performance. Now, Here are your hosts John Weaver and John Torrey. Let's get better together!

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