Building Champions for Life
Join host Kirk Spahn as he speaks with world champions about ways to elevate and equip tomorrow's champions and leaders. Drawing on his extensive background as a fourth-generation educator, founder of the Institute for Civic Leadership, and former competitive tennis player, Kirk explores the intersection of elite performance, character development, and lifelong success.
In each episode, Kirk sits down with remarkable achievers across sports, business, arts, and education to uncover the hidden foundations of true championship mindsets. Through substantive dialogues, guests share the pivotal moments, mentors, failures, and principles that shaped their journeys—revealing insights that parents, coaches, educators, and aspiring leaders can apply immediately.
Building Champions for Life goes beyond trophies and accolades to examine how exceptional performance in any field connects to deeper purpose and lasting impact. With Kirk's unique perspective spanning both traditional education and innovative learning approaches, listeners gain practical wisdom on nurturing not just skills and talents, but the character traits that create champions who thrive in all aspects of life.
Whether you're a parent supporting a child's dreams, a coach developing the next generation of talent, an educator shaping young minds, or someone striving for personal excellence, this podcast delivers actionable insights from those who've reached the pinnacle of achievement while maintaining their core values and purpose.
Subscribe to join the conversation about what truly makes a champion for life—in the arena and beyond.
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Episodes
Saving Lives After Service: Matt Maples' Vision for Veteran Support
Building Legacies: Marques Ogden on Overcoming Adversity and Impacting Community
More Than Basketball: Zaza Pachulia on Mentorship, Mindset, and Lasting Influence
Blueprints to Billions: Lance Cayko's Architectural Empire
Jason Reid on Winning at Life: The Hidden Struggles of High Achievers
Alan Lazaros on Tracking Success: The Power of Metrics in Personal Growth
Good Peopling: Elizabeth Bieniek on the Art of Leadership
Rewriting Education: Dr. Danny Brassell's Innovative Teaching Strategies
Dean Taylor on Rediscovering Purpose: A Working Dad's Transformation
Beyond the Base Path: Transforming Athletic Skills into Entrepreneurial Success with James Hilovsky
Safety First: Anna Reger's Innovative Approach to School Protection
The Joy Success Cycle: Finding Joy in Every Task with Kevin Surace
Transforming Tragedy into Purpose with Heidi Johnson
From Battlefield to Boardroom: Craig Andrews' Journey
Mind Over Matter: Dan Jansen on Perseverance and Giving Back
From Touchdowns to Tech: The Multifaceted Mission of Blake Corum
Beyond the Baseline: Iva Jovic’s Journey On and Off the Court
Building Champions for Life: The 6 P's with Kirk Spahn