153. Listen Up, Leaders: A Record-Setting Coach’s Guide to Communication
153. Listen Up, Leaders: A Record-Setting Coach’s Guide to Communication  
Podcast: Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
Published On: Tue Jul 30 2024
Description: Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.Tara VanDerveer has more wins than any other coach in NCAA basketball history. But as she says, motivating and leading teams isn’t about barking orders. Communication, she says, “It starts, number one, with listening.”For VanDerveer, leadership isn’t about a power dynamic, but a collaboration between her and her team. “I can't do it by myself and they can't do it by themselves. But as a team, we can,” she says. From seeking opinions from her assistant coaches to connecting with players about life outside the gym, VanDerveer recognizes that championships are won through communication. “The relationships that you have with your players, the communication that you have with them, will determine your success as a coach,” she says.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, VanDerveer and host Matt Abrahams explore more communication insights from on and off the court — being clear and concise, giving praise and positive feedback, and letting go of perfectionism.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Cardinal Profile: Website Ep.102 Create Presence: How to Communicate in a Way Others Can Feel Website / YouTube Ep.35 Leading From The Hot Seat: How To Communicate Under Pressure Website / YouTube Connect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn,  Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Tara VanDerveer, former Stanford University basketball coach.(00:00:59) Building Trust and OpennessFostering an environment where players feel comfortable being challenged and pushing themselves.(00:01:52) Communicating Under PressureStrategies for speaking clearly and concisely during crucial moments in games.(00:05:24) Motivation and FocusMotivating a team during challenging times and keeping them focused after successes.(00:07:26) The Value of RoutineThe value and impact of routines in practice and performance.(00:09:01) Positive Feedback and PraiseBalancing constructive criticism with positive feedback to foster player growth.(00:10:46) Taking RisksInsights on taking risks in career and coaching strategies.(00:12:56) Dual Role of CoachingThe dual role of a coach in ensuring both athletic and personal growth for players.(00:14:11) Handling Turnover and OnboardingManaging player turnover and integrating new team members.(00:16:39) Managing EmotionsTechniques for staying calm and focused during high-emotion situations.(00:17:55) Handling Mistakes and Staying PositiveMethods for helping players move past mistakes and stay focused.(00:19:35) Equity in SportsAddressing and advocating for equity between women's and men's sports.(00:21:21) Final Three QuestionsTara shares how to accept praise, two communicators she admires, and her recipe for successful communication.(00:26:30) Conclusion