The Threshold Lab
The Threshold Lab is where “aha” moments and insights go to lift weights. Each episode cracks open a fundamental principle from the world of high performance and aims to transform how you think, work, and lead. Think of it like unlocking a door you’ve passed a hundred times, only to find it opens into a whole new way of thinking. If you're into mindset, growth, and the occasional mental mic drop, you're in the right lab.
Zach Brandon is a coach, speaker, and thought leader blending principles from psychology, coaching, and high performance to empower others toward personal and professional excellence.
The Threshold Lab
Kevin Eastman | Former NBA Assistant Coach and Executive | "Why the Best Are the Best"
Today's guest, Kevin Eastman, has spent over 40 years in the game of basketball, coaching and leading at the highest levels.
His career includes 13 years in the NBA as an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics and LA Clippers, as well as serving as the Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Clippers. He was a key member of the 2008 Boston Celtics coaching staff that captured an NBA Championship and has coached in two NBA All-Star Games.
Throughout his journey, Kevin has worked with some of the game’s most iconic players including LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, Steph Curry, Ray Allen, Kevin Durant and many others. After his coaching career, he's become a sought-after speaker for corporate groups and sports teams known for his practical wisdom and commitment to excellence. He’s also the best-selling author of Why the Best Are the Best.
Here's some notable highlights from our conversation:
[12:07] — Memorizing vs. Internalizing for Learning
[19:17] — The 3 I's and Levels of Leadership
[25:51] — Memorable lesson from Jay Bilas
[36:28] — "Weeding the Garden" as an Assistant Coach
[43:49] — Self-Awareness and Knowing Your GAPS
[44:52] — Trigger Words to Slow Down & Reset
[47:37] — Evaluating Yourself in the Offseason
[52:47] — Telling the Truth
More Resources from Kevin:
- Why the Best Are the Best -- https://www.amazon.com/Why-Best-Are-Powerful-Champions/dp/1642250252/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3DCKLZTD7I0EC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ix3t3ZOKYL2_Dh11qjM5WhPRe2FwHJ3dOGZlXtG8zBTGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.AidyJPS-eEeLY11RaUgow-41p-xr0lr9Dfl36UR_Sn8&dib_tag=se&keywords=why+the+best+are+the+best+kevin+eastman&qid=1752441740&sprefix=why+the+best+are+the+best+kevin+eastma%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1
- Kevin's website -- https://kevineastman.net/
More Resources from Zach:
- For more practical tools and mindset stories, you can subscribe to my free newsletter here: https://winningwithwords.beehiiv.com/
- If you’re a coach or leader striving for more clarity, consistency, and fulfillment, feel free to reach out anytime to see how I can best serve you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-brandon-40169573/
