Coached 2 Win
It takes a coach to build a champion. Join NCAA Football National Champion and two-time Super Bowl winner Christian Fauria in conversations about athletic le...
Episodes

Mar 20, 2026
Mar 20, 2026
29 min
VCU’s Phil Martelli Jr. on Recruiting Without NIL, Building Competitors, and Coaching Through RelationshipsPhil Martelli Jr. now head coach at VCU, discusses how he pitches recruits beyond NIL by emphasizing relationships, genuine care for players as people, and a program identity built on “development” and “competition.” He explains that competitiveness can be cultivated if it exists somewhere in a player, and outlines what he looks for when evaluating talent—especially in the transfer market—prioritizing efficiency, decision-making, and playing the right way over raw points, citing a swap of an inefficient scorer for an efficient team player as a turning point. Martelli shares lessons from his father about managing people and backing coaches, offers parenting advice to limit postgame critique and ask questions, rejects a dictatorship coaching style in favor of player ownership, describes the grind and non-linear path of coaching, contrasts VCU’s resources and visibility with Bryant’s, and says resilience is the key trait he’d gift young athletes.00:00 Recruiting Pitch Beyond NIL00:57 Development and Competition Culture01:31 Can You Teach Competitiveness02:16 Spotting Talent on the Trail03:37 Efficiency and Analytics in Recruiting04:35 Transfer Market Hype and Self Deception05:53 Lessons From a Legendary Coach Dad08:23 Backing the Coach and Buying In09:20 Parenting Advice After Games12:16 Coaching Without Dictatorship13:21 Player Ownership in Workouts14:06 Advice for Coaches Grinding Up14:49 Coaching Longevity Mindset15:48 Lottery Business Breakthrough17:40 Bryant vs VCU Resources19:31 Pressure and Expectations21:07 Building Team Connection24:08 Why We Play One on One25:37 Old School Drill Talk26:13 Resilience for Athletes

Aug 5, 2025
Aug 5, 2025
25 min
Christian Fauria sits down with Liz Feld, the CEO of Radical Hope, to discuss their program aimed at improving the mental health and emotional well-being of young adults. The conversation delves into the origins of Radical Hope, its development, and the impactful work being done to provide young adults with essential life skills. The discussion highlights key stressors for today's youth, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for resilience. Liz Feld also shares insights on peer-led initiatives, challenges in transitioning from college to the workforce, and the critical role of self-awareness and self-care. This engaging conversation underscores the mission of Radical Hope to build meaningful connections and stronger mental health practices among young adults.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:55 The Origin of Radical Hope03:04 Building the Radical Hope Program04:36 Challenges Faced by Young Adults07:20 The Role of Coaches and Parents13:37 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence16:06 Liz Feld's Journey and Vision22:54 Scaling Radical Hope and Future Plans24:08 Final Thoughts on Resilience

Jul 8, 2025
Jul 8, 2025
20 min
World Series Champion and former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon joins Christian Fauria for an in-depth conversation about his journey from a sports-driven childhood to Major League Baseball stardom. Papelbon discusses his early influences, the competitive environment of his upbringing, and his decision to choose baseball over football. He recounts his experiences with being the new guy, the importance of strong routines, and the challenges of being a closer. Papelbon reflects on the leadership and culture of championship teams, the importance of accountability, and offers advice for young athletes on handling failure to achieve success.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:24 Early Life and Career Beginnings01:26 Family and Upbringing03:32 College Choices and Recruitment05:25 Transition to Professional Baseball07:36 Life as a Rookie in the Big Leagues15:19 Leadership and Team Dynamics18:27 Post-Baseball Life and Hobbies19:43 Advice for Young Athletes

Jun 17, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
34 min
Christina Fauria interviews Matt Barnes, former NBA player and host of 'All The Smoke.' Matt shares his journey from being a highly recruited high school football player to a successful NBA career. He discusses how the traits of competitiveness, resilience, and tenacity from football transitioned into his basketball career. Barnes also delves into his experiences coaching his sons' AAU team, the influence of mentors like John Wooden and high school coaches, and the challenges and rewards of parenting in today’s landscape. This episode provides a deep dive into the importance of mental toughness, relating to the next generation, and navigating the evolving world of youth sports.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:00 Introduction and Career Overview00:45 Transition from Football to Basketball02:45 High School and College Journey04:21 UCLA Summer Runs and Learning from the Pros08:06 Coaching Philosophy and Raising Kids11:50 Balancing Sports and Life Lessons15:44 Influential Coaches and Mentors16:58 Influential Coaches and Early Mentors17:21 Coaching Philosophy and AAU Critique19:37 Challenges and Solutions in AAU Basketball22:27 Handling Failure and Mental Toughness26:40 Parenting and Coaching Balance32:49 The Importance of Mental Toughness

Jun 10, 2025
Jun 10, 2025
33 min
Super Bowl champion Christian Fauria is joined by his nephew, former NFL tight end Joe Fauria. They discuss Joe's career journey, including his time with Detroit Lions, and share memories of playing in the NFL. Joe also opens up about the importance of maintaining mental and physical health post-NFL, his current work in wellness, and the impact of breathwork. Learn more about their experiences with past coaches, teammates, and innovative wellness practices.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:00 Introduction and Setup00:26 Special Edition with Big Joe Fourier01:01 Memories of Detroit and the Lions01:22 Coaching Styles: Jim Schwartz vs. Jim Caldwell03:43 College Career and Draft Experience05:18 Rookie Year Challenges and Breakthroughs08:32 Support from Nate Burleson12:10 Kellen Moore and Quarterback Dynamics14:53 The Role of Third String Quarterbacks16:00 Identifying Future Coaches in the NFL17:03 Transitioning to Wellness and Breathwork17:35 The Science and Benefits of Breathwork20:59 Global Reach and Cultural Acceptance of Breathwork22:05 Practical Applications and Techniques of Breathwork27:09 Breathwork for All Ages and Its Therapeutic Potential28:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Wellness

Jun 10, 2025
Jun 10, 2025
33 min
Super Bowl champion Christian Fauria is joined by his nephew, former NFL tight end Joe Fauria. They discuss Joe's career journey, including his time with Detroit Lions, and share memories of playing in the NFL. Joe also opens up about the importance of maintaining mental and physical health post-NFL, his current work in wellness, and the impact of breathwork. Learn more about their experiences with past coaches, teammates, and innovative wellness practices.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:00 Introduction and Setup00:26 Special Edition with Big Joe Fourier01:01 Memories of Detroit and the Lions01:22 Coaching Styles: Jim Schwartz vs. Jim Caldwell03:43 College Career and Draft Experience05:18 Rookie Year Challenges and Breakthroughs08:32 Support from Nate Burleson12:10 Kellen Moore and Quarterback Dynamics14:53 The Role of Third String Quarterbacks16:00 Identifying Future Coaches in the NFL17:03 Transitioning to Wellness and Breathwork17:35 The Science and Benefits of Breathwork20:59 Global Reach and Cultural Acceptance of Breathwork22:05 Practical Applications and Techniques of Breathwork27:09 Breathwork for All Ages and Its Therapeutic Potential28:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Wellness

Jun 3, 2025
Jun 3, 2025
34 min
John Harbaugh on Coaching Philosophy, Career Journey, and Impactful MentorshipBaltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh discusses his passion for coaching, his career path, and the profound influence of mentorship in his life and career. He reflects on the similarities between his dad and Bill McCartney, his initial reluctance and eventual love for coaching, and his diverse coaching experiences. Harbaugh shares insights on his leadership style, the importance of empathy, and his commitment to fostering a positive environment for players. He also talks about the value of having women in coaching positions and the significance of caring deeply about one’s pursuits. This episode provides a deep dive into Harbaugh's philosophy and approach to coaching, highlighting the transformative power of a dedicated mentor.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapter00:00 Introduction to John Harbaugh00:12 Coaching Influences and Early Inspirations03:05 The Start of a Coaching Career06:11 The Journey Through Various Coaching Roles10:16 Building Relationships and Overcoming Limitations15:21 Parenting and Coaching Insights18:29 Creating Meaningful Moments for Players18:42 Balancing Roles: Coach and Parent19:25 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Watching Your Kids Play21:21 Gifting Traits to Young Athletes21:59 The Importance of Caring in Sports and Life23:40 The Harbaugh Coaching Academy26:29 Handling Adversity: Mark Andrews' Story30:39 Promoting Diversity: Women in the NFL33:13 Concluding Thoughts on Progress and Equality

May 20, 2025
May 20, 2025
28 min
PJ Fleck, head football coach at the University of Minnesota, joins Christian Fauria to discuss the profound impact of mentors like Mike Nolan, the development of his team culture, and the significance of his 'Row the Boat' philosophy. Fleck shares heartfelt stories, including how personal tragedy led to the creation of 'Row the Boat', and emphasizes the importance of empathy and gratitude in both sports and life. This interview offers an in-depth look at how cultural values can shape a successful football program and positively influence young athletes' lives.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapter01:37 The Impact of Coach Mike Nolan07:31 Influences from Other Coaches15:36 Row the Boat Philosophy25:17 Empathy and Gratitude in Leadership27:14 Balancing Coaching and Personal Life

May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025
34 min
Christina Fauria interviews Meg Wilson, founder and CEO of the Sports Professional Knowledge Network (SPKN). Meg shares her journey from athlete to coach and the motivation behind creating SPKN. They discuss the challenges and importance of coaching education, addressing issues like mental toughness, team culture, and nutrition. Meg highlights the need for continual learning among coaches and the impact they can have on young athletes. The conversation also delves into the six pillars of SPKN and the broader issues in youth sports, including parental involvement and the mental well-being of young athletes.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:00 Introduction to Meg Wilson and SPKN00:53 Meg's Coaching Journey Begins01:43 Challenges and Motivations in Coaching05:03 The Importance of Continual Learning for Coaches07:18 Parental Involvement in Youth Sports07:47 Addressing Problems in Youth Sports10:58 Post-Game Interactions and Parental Guidance14:14 Meg's Personal Experiences as a Parent and Coach15:57 The Six Pillars of SPKN17:51 Cultural Sensitivity in Coaching18:44 Fairness and Individual Treatment19:34 Challenges in Coaching Different Genders21:13 Communication and Team Culture24:59 Skill and Coach Development25:13 Nutrition and Supplements29:11 Sports Science and Technology31:30 Making a Lasting Impact

May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025
34 min
Christian Fauria sits down with NFL head coach Doug Pederson for an engaging conversation about his career, his mentors, and his approach to coaching. Pederson discusses his experiences under Mike Holmgren in Green Bay, his playing days with Brett Favre, and his transition from playing to coaching. He shares the challenges of validating himself throughout his career, and how those experiences shape his coaching style. The discussion also covers Pederson's thoughts on creating a successful team culture, the importance of honesty with players, and the universal coaching principles he applies, whether coaching high school kids or NFL stars. Join this comprehensive talk to gain deep insights into what it takes to succeed in the NFL from one of the game's seasoned leaders.Follow Christian Fauria on X: https://x.com/christianfauriaFollow Coached 2 Win on...X: https://x.com/Coached2Win Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coached2win/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coached2winChapters00:00 Introduction and Career Overview00:26 Coaching Under Mike Holmgren03:10 Challenges and Lessons as a Player14:53 Transition to Coaching and High School Experience16:44 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development21:37 Building Championship Teams and Culture31:58 Fun Q&A and Closing Remarks







