Game Changers with Molly Fletcher

March Madness is here and I'm kicking it off with a coaching legend, University of Miami basketball coach Jim Larrañaga. A first-time nominee for the Naismith Hall of Fame, he's won more than 700 games in his 39 seasons as a head coach which ranks in the Top 10 among active coaches. Larrañaga captured the hearts of basketball fans around the country in 2006 when he led George Mason to the Final Four, becoming the first mid-major semifinalist in 27 years. In 12 seasons with Miami, he's led the Hurricanes to six NCAA tournament appearances, including an Elite Eight appearance a season ago. On this episode, we talk about the four levels of commitment, leading in alignment with your core values, and how to coach discipline and accountability.

What does it mean to live an urgent life? Bozoma Saint John is a Hall of Fame inducted marketing executive whose career has included high-profile roles at Netflix, Uber, Apple Music, and Pepsi. She was named "The World's Most Influential CMO" by Forbes. But there's so much more to Boz's story. When her husband Peter died of cancer, Boz made one big decision: to live life urgently. In her new memoir The Urgent Life, Boz shares her journey through heartbreak, loss and grief. On this episode, we talk about finding joy again and choosing to live your life to the fullest.

Maya Moore was at the pinnacle of her basketball career when she left it all behind to fight an injustice. That journey for justice turned into a remarkable love story when Maya married the man she helped free from prison after a wrongful conviction, Jonathan Irons. In their new memoir, Love and Justice, Maya and Jonathan open up about the trials and tribulations they faced together and the love that emerged. On this episode, we talk about living out your purpose, anchoring yourself in faith, and finding strength in your connection to others.

Troy Aikman has reached the height of success on the football field and in the broadcast booth. He's a Hall of Fame quarterback and an Emmy-nominated broadcaster who serves as the voice of ESPN's Monday Night Football. During his 12-year playing career, Troy was a 6x Pro Bowl selection and led the storied Dallas Cowboys franchise to three Super Bowl rings. A successful entrepreneur off the field, Troy recently announced the launch of EIGHT, a light beer brewed with organic grains. On this episode, we talk about setting high expectations, performing under pressure, and tackling new challenges.

In a world that often feels polarized and disconnected, it's more important than ever to show up with empathy. Carlos Whittaker is bringing hope to people all over the world. He's the author of four books, host of the podcast Human Hope and a global speaker. You may recognize Carlos from Instagram, where's he's built a tribe of enthusiastic followers who join forces with Carlos to find connection, do good, and be in community. His latest book, How to Human, comes out on January 24 and is available for pre-order now. In our conversation today, we talk about how to step into difficult conversations with love, live up to our full potential, and move beyond what divides us.

Ron Rivera is the head coach of the Washington Commandeers and a two-time NFL Coach of the Year. Shortly after his start in Washington, Ron was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments, Ron continued to coach and incredibly never missed a game. In January 2021, he was declared cancer free. Prior to the Commanders, Ron was the head coach for the Carolina Panthers from 2011-2019, leading the team to three consecutive division titles and a Super Bowl appearance. A former NFL player, he played nine seasons with the Chicago Bears including the 1985 Super Bowl team. On this episode, we talk about leading through adversity, building a culture of excellence, and rising to the occasion.

Tori Dunlap is an internationally-recognized money and career expert, and podcast host. After saving $100,000 at age 25, Tori quit her corporate job in marketing and founded Her First $100K to fight financial inequality by giving women actionable resources to better their money. She is the host of the #1 business podcast Financial Feminist and author of the upcoming book Financial Feminist. Tori now travels the world writing, speaking, and coaching about personal finance, side hustles, and confidence for women. On this, we talk about why it's important for women to talk about money, strategies for your next negotiation, and how to achieve your financial goals.

What if you could multiply your time? On this episode, Rory Vaden shares why everything we think about time management is wrong. He's the New York Times bestselling author of Take the Stairs and his TED talk has been viewed over 3 million times. He is also the co-founder of Brand Builders Group where he teaches people how to grow their influence and build and monetize their personal brand. On this episode, we talk about how high performers think about time management differently and how you can apply their strategies to your own life.

Jeff Foxworthy is one of the most recognized comedians in the country, a bestselling author, producer and writer. Jeff's new comedy special "The Good Old Days," is streaming now on Netflix and is his first solo special in 24 years. You might know him for his career in comedy and on TV, but on this episode you'll meet the man behind the mic. On this episode, we talk about turning your passion into a career and creating a life that's aligned with your priorities.

Gretchen Rubin is a happiness expert, author and host of the award-winning podcast Happier with Gretchen Rubin. She's the author of five New York Times bestselling books, including the #1 bestseller The Happiness Project which spent two years on the bestseller list. Gretchen has been interviewed by Oprah, walked arm-in-arm with the Dalai Lama, and been an answer on the game show Jeopardy! On this episode, we talk about how we can make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative.

Joe Gebbia turned a crazy idea—inviting strangers into your home—into one of the world's most innovative companies. Joe is the co-founder of Airbnb and chairman of Airbnb.org, his nonprofit brainchild that provides housing to people in crisis. He's been named to Fortune's "40 Under 40" and Fast Company's "Most Creative People." A lifelong basketball fan, Joe is also a member of the San Antonio Spurs investor group. On this episode, we talk about the incredible story behind Airbnb, turning setbacks into opportunities and doubling down on your dreams.

Jess Sims is a top Peloton instructor and the newest member of ESPN's College Game Day. Widely known for her work as a fitness instructor, Jess left a career in education to pursue her passion. After teaching at studios in New York City, she became a global sensation when she joined Peloton in 2018 as a Tread instructor, teaching classes to over 7 million subscribers worldwide. On this episode, we talk about changing careers, going for opportunities, and stepping into new situations with confidence.

The ability to focus is key to improving our productivity and achieving our goals, but it's a skill that most people are never taught! Dandapani is a Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and former monk of 10 years. He has helped millions overcome distraction through his popular TED Talk, workshops and courses. In his new book, The Power of Unwavering Focus, Dandapani distills his wisdom into a step-by-step guide to cultivating concentration. On this episode, he shares tools to help you overcome distraction and sharpen your focus so that you can achieve your goals.

Eric "ET" Thomas has reached millions with his story of going from homeless to one of the world's top motivational speakers. He's been profiled in GQ, Sports Illustrated and ESPN and is a trusted advisor to top corporate teams, sports teams and athletes looking to unlock greatness. Known as "the hip hop preacher," ET is especially passionate about helping kids nurture and realize their potential. His new book "You Owe You" is all about how to rewrite your narrative and take ownership of your life. In today's conversation, we talk about how to ignite your purpose, leverage your superpowers and stop making excuses.

Andrew "Hawk" Hawkins is a former NFL player, sports executive, and Emmy Award-nominated host. He played seven seasons in the NFL for the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns, while earning his Master's degree from Columbia University with a 4.0 GPA. After retiring from the NFL, Hawk began his media career at ESPN as an anchor of SportsCenter on Snapchat. He co-hosts his own podcast, "Thom & Hawk" with Joe Thomas and recently co-founded sports technology company, Status Pro. On this episode, we talk about his long journey to the NFL, how to channel doubt into fuel, and why the best things in life are hard.

What do you wish you had the confidence to do? Lisa Bilyeu is the cofounder of Quest Nutrition, the President of Impact Theory, and the host of the Women of Impact podcast. In her new book, Radical Confidence, Lisa shares the story of how she went from stay-at-home housewife to cofounder of a billion-dollar company. On this episode, we talk about how to face your insecurities, boost your confidence, and live the life of your dreams.

Allyson Felix is a 5-time Olympian and recently retired as the most decorated American track & field star of all time with 30 medals. Recently named one of TIME's "100 Most Influential People," Allyson is stepping into her next chapter as a fierce advocate for women. She's the founder of Saysh, a lifestyle brand focused on athletic-inspired footwear made for and by women, and is a powerful voice for maternity health. On this episode, we talk about managing pressure and expectations, bouncing back from setbacks, and overcoming fear to find her voice.

Natasha Graziano went from homeless and broke to top mindset coach and motivational speaker. The creator of the MBS Method, Natasha is passionate about helping people transform their lives through neuroscience and ancient wisdom. She's amassed more than 15 million followers on social media and has been featured in The New York Times, Vogue and USA Today. Natasha is the host of the popular Law of Attraction podcast and is the author of the new book, Be It Until You Become It. In today's conversation, we talk about the law of attraction, creating a success mindset, and how to achieve your goals faster.

With three World Series titles to his name, Tony La Russa is widely considered one of the best managers in Major League Baseball history. He's spent 33 years as a manager, currently for the Chicago White Sox and previously with the Oakland Athletics and St. Louis Cardinals. A member of baseball's Hall of Fame, Tony ranks 2nd all-time in wins among big league managers. In our conversation today, we talk about his relentless approach to preparation, building a strong team culture, and how to inspire greatness in others.

It's never too late to change your life. Ten years into a successful career as a nightclub promoter, Scott Harrison felt empty and unhappy. Desperate for change, he signed up to volunteer on a hospital ship in Liberia where he first learned about the impact of the global water crisis. That experience inspired him to start the nonprofit charity: water to bring clean water to developing countries around the world. Today, charity: water has funded 91,414 water projects to help more than 14.7 million people get access to clean water. On this episode, Scott talks about the power of second chances, finding a sense of purpose, and why it's never too late to make a change. Donate to charity: water here: charitywater.org/molly

Robin Arzón left behind a successful law career and reinvented herself as global fitness leader. As Vice President of Fitness Programming and Head Instructor at Peloton, Robin believes that sweat transforms lives and her story is living proof. Now she helps others see what's possible when you push past limitations and excuses. Robin is the author of Shut Up and Run and Strong Mama and has been named to Fortune Magazine's "40 Under 40 List." On this episode, we talk about how to turn your inner critic into an inner advocate, the difference between quitting and pivoting, and why it's never too late to change careers!

Bethenny Frankel is an entrepreneur, TV producer, and author of the new book, Business Is Personal. Bethenny burst onto the scene as the unfiltered breakout star of Bravo's hit show The Real Housewives of New York City and leveraged her reality TV fame to build a business empire. A self-made businesswoman, she is the founder of the Skinnygirl and Bethenny brands and host of the chart-topping podcast Just B with Bethenny Frankel. Her charitable initiative BSTRONG has raised millions of dollars for disaster relief efforts around the world. On this episode, we talk about why she originally turned down Real Housewives (and what made her change her mind!), what it takes to be successful while staying true to yourself, and how she's built a business empire.

Kara Goldin knows what it takes to build a business from scratch. She's the founder of Hint, the leading unsweetened flavored water. Hint was inspired by Kara's own health journey, when she kicked her diet soda habit by turning to fruit infused water. After discovering there was nothing like the fruit-flavored water on the market, she decided to make it herself. Kara is a former tech executive at AOL, host of the podcast The Kara Goldin Show and author of Undaunted. She's been named one of Fast Company's Most Creative People in Business and to Fortune's Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs list. On this episode, we talk about how to move forward despite uncertainty, turn criticism into motivation and create your own opportunities.

How can you become the person you want to be? Success only happens when who you are at your core aligns with your life's vision. Anthony Trucks is a former NFL athlete and author of Identity Shift. He spent his childhood in the foster care system where he operated in survival mode before being adopted at age 14. Anthony went on to earn a football scholarship and made it to the NFL before his dream came crashing down after an injury. Facing the odds once again, he had to pivot-- and that's how he discovered the power of the identity shift. Anthony's life mission is teaching people how to Make Shift Happen in their lives. On this episode, we talk about how to reprogram your life from the inside out, turn roadblocks into opportunities, and elevate your life to reach your full potential.

Brad Stevens is the architect behind the Boston Celtics franchise, serving as the team's President of Basketball Operations. He previously spent eight seasons as the Celtics head coach, leading the team to seven straight trips to the playoffs and three Eastern Conference Finals appearances. Before joining the Celtics, Stevens coached at Butler University where he led the Bulldogs to two appearances in the national championship game. On this episode, we talk about finding contentment in the pursuit, the three qualities he looks for in hiring, and his advice for young leaders.

Tim Brown is the co-founder & CEO of Allbirds, the sustainable shoe and apparel company and maker of "the world's most comfortable shoe." Tim's experience as a World Cup soccer player for New Zealand led him to think about things on a grand scale, whether that be crafting shoes or running a business. On this episode, we talk about how Allbirds began as a curiosity project, the drive to get better every day, and how tackling tough problems can unlock our purpose.

What does it take to not just get to the top but stay there? Sue Bird is a 4x WNBA champion, 5x Olympic gold medalist and 2x NCAA champion. To say she's a winner is an understatement. In her 19th season in the WNBA, Sue is looking to lead the Seattle Storm to one more championship in what is expected to be her final season. Sue is a fierce advocate for equality and is the co-founder of TOGETHXR, a media company that elevates and centers women through storytelling. On this episode, we talk about mental toughness, keeping your competitive edge and the legacy she's leaving behind to inspire the next generation.

Jay Glazer is a TV personality and NFL insider who has broken some of the biggest stories in sports. But despite his outward success, Jay has long struggled with depression and anxiety. Now he's made it his mission to help others who are on the same journey. His new book Unbreakable explores his decades-long journey to success and how he's turned his depression and anxiety into motivation. On this episode, we talk about outworking the competition, building your team, and finding your real strength through vulnerability.

What does it take to become an Olympic gold medalist? Figure skater Tara Lipinski catapulted onto the world stage at age 15, becoming the youngest individual gold medalist ever at the 1998 Winter Olympics. Today she's a broadcaster for NBC and producer for the new docuseries, Meddling. On this episode, Tara shares the sacrifice and immense discipline it takes to be elite and what it's like to perform under pressure.

What's the #1 blocker to achieving your biggest goals and dreams? Fear. Rebecca Minkoff is a fashion designer and wildly successful entrepreneur. An industry leader in accessible luxury handbags and apparel, her designs are inspired by strong, confident women. In her new book, Fearless, Rebecca re-writes the rules to share her secrets for unlocking creativity, courage, and success. In our conversation, Rebecca guides us how to let go of others' expectations, overcome the fear of failure, and reach your goals—no matter how unattainable they may seem.

What's your New Year's resolution this year? Maybe it's to exercise more, save money or learn a new skill. Whatever your goal, you need tools and tactics to help you identify and overcome the barriers to change. Katy Milkman is an award-winning professor at Wharton and host of the popular podcast, Choiceology. She's devoted her career to the studying behavior change and she shares the tools she's learned in her book, How to Change. On this episode, Katy reveals a science-based approach that can take you from where you are to where you want to be. We talk about why change is so hard, when the best time to change is, and how to overcome the common barriers to change. Whether you're a manager, coach or leader aiming to help others change for the better—or are struggling to kick-start change yourself, this conversation is for you.

What do you think of when you hear the term "personal brand?" Maybe you think of a famous celebrity or a social media influencer. But we all have a personal brand, and it boils down to reputation. What do people think of when they think of you? AJ Vaden is the CEO and Co-Founder of Brand Builders Group and one of the world's leading experts in personal brand strategy. Over the last 15 years she has helped create, launch and grow several multi-million dollar businesses from start up to 7 and 8 figures in annual revenue. AJ is the Co-Host of The Influential Personal Brand Podcast and was recently named as one of the top 5 personal branding speakers. On this episode, she shares why you need a personal brand, how to build it, and the common mistakes to avoid. Download the Trends in Personal Branding National Research Study: https://bit.ly/study-gamechangers

Former NFL star Warrick Dunn has built a legacy on and off the field. A 3x Pro Bowl selection, Warrick played for 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Bucs and the Atlanta Falcons. He joined the Falcons ownership group in 2009 after his retirement. But his greatest impact goes far beyond the football field. Warrick started his charity and its signature "Homes for the Holidays" program in honor of his mother, a Baton Rouge police officer who was killed when he was just 18 years old. Warrick raised his five younger siblings and when he became a star in the NFL, made it his mission to provide other families the stability he never had. On this episode, Warrick shares how he channeled his pain into purpose, how he made it as an undersized back in the NFL, and why he decided to meet and ultimately forgive the man convicted of killing his mom.

Is your team on a mission or simply going through the motions? Neil Blumenthal is the co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, a mission-driven brand that has revolutionized the eyewear industry while focusing on social impact. Named "the most innovative company in the world" by Fast Company, Warby Parker provides high quality prescription eyewear at a fraction of the price. For every pair of glasses sold, a pair is distributed to someone in need through the Buy a Pair, Give a Pair program. Neil was named a "Young Global Leader" by the World Economic Forum and one of the "100 Most Creative People in Business" by Fast Company. In our conversation today, we talk about how a business can scale, be profitable, and do good in the world.

Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist of Canva. A Silicon Valley veteran with experience at Apple and Google, Guy was one of the Apple employees originally responsible for marketing their Macintosh computer line. He's the creator of the Remarkable People podcast and the bestselling author of 13 books. Guy has over 30 years of experience with creating innovative products and services and going to market and is an expert on innovation, entrepreneurship, and marketing. In our conversation today, he shares the lessons he learned working for Steve Jobs at Apple, how to turn your customers into evangelists, and the factors that create influence.

As a college football standout, Chase Rice once dreamed of playing in the NFL. Now he's selling out those same stadiums as one of the hottest stars in country music. No matter what dream he pursues, Chase separates himself with his relentless drive. After working on the pit crew in NASCAR and competing on Survivor, Chase moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music. He's penned hits like Cruise, topped the country charts, and opened for Garth Brooks. But his inner journey didn't always match his external success. On this episode, Chase opens up about his struggle with depression, finding his voice through his music, and never settling.

A retired four-star general, General Stan McChrystal is the former commander of the US and International Forces in Afghanistan and the former commander of the nation's premier military counter-terrorism force, Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). He's the founder & CEO of The McChrystal Group and a senior fellow at Yale, where he teaches a popular course on leadership. An expert on leadership and teams, General McChrystal is the author of several books, including his new book, Risk. In this conversation, we talk about the future of leadership, leading through adversity, and building resilient teams.

Ernie Johnson is one of the most recognizable and loved sports personalities on TV. A 3x Sports Emmy Award winner, Ernie hosts the popular postgame show Inside the NBA on TNT. In his book Unscripted, Ernie opens up about life both on and off the screen. On this episode, we talk about the unpredictable moments that make life extraordinary. Ernie shares the life lessons he learned from his battle with cancer, how he's been able to prioritize both work and family, and the beauty of living life unscripted.

To succeed at work and advance your career, you need someone who will advocate for you. Who will be your champion? Carla Harris, Vice Chairman of Wealth Management and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, believes that a sponsor is the critical relationship in your career. Carla began her career on Wall Street at a time when few of her colleagues were African-American or women. She oversees Morgan Stanley's multicultural client strategy, helped build the company's Multicultural Innovation Lab, and was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women's Business Council. On this episode, Carla shares what she's learned about pathways to career success. Discover the difference between mentors and sponsors, how to get a sponsor, and why authenticity is your competitive advantage.

Known for his innovative approach and imaginative managerial tactics, Los Angeles Angels manager Joe Maddon is one of the most successful leaders in baseball. In 16 seasons as a major league manager, he's been awarded Manager of the Year three times and is third among active managers in wins. Joe led the Tampa Bay Rays to a World Series berth and the Chicago Cubs to their first World Series title since 1908. On this episode, Joe shares the unconventional leadership tactics he embraces—from unique clubhouse visitors to themed road trips to meditation. And we also talk about the community work he is doing through his charitable foundation, Respect 90 and The Hazleton Integration Project.

Kirk Herbstreit is the face of college football, serving as an analyst for College GameDay and Saturday Night Football. In his new memoir, Out of the Pocket, Kirk takes us inside the locker room—to the practice fields, meeting rooms and stadiums. And he also opens up about the personal challenges he overcame. On this episode, we talk about what happens when your dream blows up, taking a chance to pursue your passion, and never compromising what matters most.

Amy Van Dyken is a six-time Olympic gold-medalist swimmer and the first American female athlete to win four gold medals in a single Games. In June of 2014, Amy's life was turned upside down. She severed her spinal cord in an ATV accident, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. Instead of being defeated, Amy attacked her rehab with relentless optimism and has become a champion for the disabilities community. In our conversation today, we talk about how to stay positive in the face of adversity, persevere against all odds, and go for it!

Dominique Dawes is a three-time Olympic gymnast who helped Team USA to its first ever gold medal at the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996. She is the only American gymnast to medal in the team competition at three different Olympic Games and is the first African-American gymnast to win an individual medal. But the success came at a price. Now, Dominique is helping to change the culture inside the sport she loves with the opening of the Dominique Dawes Gymnastics & Ninja Academy. On this episode, we talk about finding your greater purpose and defining success in your own terms.

Confidence. We all want it. We all need it. But how do we build it? Katty Kay is the author of The Confidence Code and The Confidence Code for Girls, and has spent years researching and studying the science of confidence. On this episode, we look at how a lack of confidence—particularly for women in the workplace-- impacts our leadership, success and fulfillment. In our conversation, Katty shares the magic formula for confidence: act more, think less and be authentic.

Meet Alex Guerrero, the man behind Tom Brady's success. Known as Brady's body coach, their partnership has spanned 15 years and three Super Bowl titles. In 2013, Alex and Tom co-founded TB12, with the goal of helping people everywhere feel better and perform their best. This episode is all about how to sustain peak performance. Alex shares the keys to developing a winning mindset, recovery techniques, and gives us a unique look inside the mindset of one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Luvvie Ajayi Jones is a New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker. Her TED Talk has been viewed more than 6.6 million times and Oprah named her to the inaugural SuperSoul100 list as someone who "elevates humanity." Luvvie's new book, Professional Troublemaker, inspire us all to live life loudly—with courage and conviction. On this episode, she walks us through how to do the things that scare us, embrace our unique superpowers, and use our voice for a greater good.

Jamie Kern Lima went from Denny's waitress to founder of a multibillion-dollar cosmetics brand. She's the founder of IT Cosmetics, a company she started in her living room and sold to L'Oreal for $1.2 billion, earning her a place on Forbes "Richest Self-Made Women" list. At least that's the highlight version of her story. In her new book Believe It!, Jamie gets real on the hustle it took to keep her dream alive and the countless rejections she encountered along the way. In our conversation, we talk about how to overcome self-doubt, trust your intuition, and turn down the volume on your inner critic so that you can achieve your wildest dreams.

No one succeeds alone. That's the message behind Compass founder and CEO Robert Reffkin's journey and the title of his new book. Raised by his mother, abandoned by his father and disowned by his maternal grandparents, Robert has always defied the odds. He graduated from Columbia in 2.5 years, earned an MBA from Columbia Business School, and worked at McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and as a White House Fellow before starting Compass. One of the only Black CEOs in tech, Robert's mission is to help everyone find their place in the world and realize their full potential. On this episode, we talk about the importance of mentorship, how to build your own network, and the leadership principles that have guided his success.

Ellen Bennett went from a $10/hour line cook to building a multimillion-dollar apron empire by dreaming big. She's the founder and CEO of Hedley & Bennett, a culinary lifestyle brand that outfits everyone from the home cook to celebrity chefs and makers around the world. In her new book, Dream First, Details Later, Ellen shares her incredible journey. On this episode, discover how to silence your inner critic, turn your ideas into action, and hustle your way to the top.