Who Knew In The Moment?

Phil Friedrich

Phil Friedrich brings high profile guests to highlight their Pivotal Moments! Who Knew In The Moment that decision would be the one to change your life forever? There are certain moments in your life that forever changed the direction of your life. Why did we decide to make that choice? Why does that certain moment stick out years later? Join us as we speak to the best and brightest to learn about their defining moments! The fascinating stories of how top performers in their field persevered to accomplish their goals.

  1. 2d ago

    Drew Jones III- From Philly Roots to Head Coach of the Raptors 905!

    Drew Jones: From Philly Roots to Head Coach of the Raptors 905Join us for an inspiring conversation with Drew Jones, the head coach of the Raptors 905. Drew shares his journey from a late start in organized basketball, his development through high school and college, and his rise through the coaching ranks—all rooted in passion, discipline, and faith. Discover lessons on character, resilience, and continuous growth that apply both on and off the court.Main Topics: Drew's basketball journey from Philly to Division I Building team chemistry and leadership during college success Transition from player to coach and lessons learned The importance of character and authenticity in leadership Navigating uncertainty and self-doubt as a head coach Developing a coaching philosophy inspired by mentors and faith The value of continuous learning and failing fast Insights on player effort, growth, and maintaining high standards The power of relationships and character in career progression Embracing the challenge of coaching in the NBA and professional leagues (00:01) Welcome and introduction to Drew Jones (00:27) Drew's childhood and late start in basketball (01:42) Lessons learned from growing up in Philadelphia's basketball culture (02:45) Transition into high school and discovering basketball's potential (03:22) Developing discipline and work ethic leading to a Division I scholarship (04:44) College success and team dynamics at Penn State (05:58) The significance of playing at Penn State and redshirt year (07:24) Winning the NIT and team chemistry (10:14) Playing at Madison Square Garden and iconic games (14:35) International career and handling injuries (16:35) Transitioning into coaching and early roles (18:40) Lessons from mentors like Mark Dagnalt and Darko (20:53) Building character and trust in teams (23:16) Moving to the NBA with Oklahoma City Blue (24:54) Lessons from being around top-tier coaches and players (28:50) Staying focused on personal growth and avoiding comparison (31:13) Transition to the 76ers and returning home (33:46) Coaching in Detroit and working with young talent (40:24) Becoming head coach of the Toronto Raptors 905 (41:57) Confidence through continual effort and faith (46:02) The role of faith and discipline in life and leadership (49:14) Closing thoughts and encouragement Drew Jones on LinkedIn Raptors 905 Penn State Basketball LinkedIn Timestamps:Resources & Links:Connect with Drew:This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, character, and relentless pursuit of excellence—both on and off the court. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or aspiring leader, Drew's story underscores the importance of authenticity, faith, and continuous growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    57 min
  2. Jun 23

    Chris Norton- The Unexpected Role of Small Wins in Overcoming Life’s Biggest Challenges!

    Turning Adversity into Triumph: The Inspirational Journey of Chris NortonJoin us as Chris Norton shares his incredible story of resilience, faith, and the relentless pursuit of his dreams despite life-changing injuries. Discover how small wins, unwavering faith, and a powerful vision can turn setbacks into extraordinary successes.Main Topics: Chris's childhood passion for sports and the competitive mindset The pivotal moment of injury during his college football game His mindset shift from despair to determination with only a 3% chance to walk again The role of faith, family, and community support in his recovery The importance of celebrating small wins and maintaining a growth-oriented perspective The journey of proposing, graduating, and walking his wife down the aisle His speaking career and inspiring others through storytelling The transformative impact of fostering and adopting children The mission of his foundation to improve rehab opportunities for those with disabilities The Power of Faith by Chris Norton The Seven Longest Yards by Chris Norton Chris Norton - Official Website Foundation for Disabilities Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: Overcoming life's greatest challenges with faith and perseverance 00:27 - Chris's early love for competition and sports influence 00:57 - Deciding to pursue college football at Luther College 02:20 - The game-changing injury and instinct to compete regardless 04:24 - The traumatic moment of his injury and medical emergency 05:19 - Facing a 3% chance of walking again and his refusal to accept limitations 06:56 - The power of faith and staying hopeful through medical uncertainty 08:16 - The emotional questions asked in the hospital and his mindset 09:44 - Committing to being in the 3% and the relentless effort to recover 10:33 - The importance of deliberate practice and small wins 12:10 - Support team: Family and medical professionals in the recovery journey 12:41 - Building belief and overcoming medical doubts 13:15 - How faith and family united during tough times 14:09 - Handling doubt and dark nights with spiritual strength 15:04 - Finding strength through faith, prayer, and hope 16:48 - Recognizing God's presence during moments of discomfort 18:24 - Maintaining belief in a brighter future amidst uncertainty 19:27 - Celebrating small victories on the path to recovery 21:40 - The significance of focusing on today's progress 22:35 - Balancing future goals with celebrating current wins 23:22 - Micro-wins: Driving power wheelchairs and small steps forward 25:08 - The pain of setbacks and learning to appreciate the present 26:35 - Meeting Emily, building a relationship, and shared aspirations 30:58 - The viral moment of walking Emily down the aisle 33:37 - Years of training, overcoming low moments, and perseverance 35:44 - The significance of love and purpose in achieving goals 36:12 - Celebrating marriage, perseverance, and Chris’s journey on the big day 38:58 - Transitioning into a dynamic speaking career and sharing his story 42:10 - Turning speaking into a impactful career and influence 44:16 - Fostering and adopting children, and the profound impact on lives 47:25 - The mission of his foundation to improve lives through innovation and community 50:28 - Inspiring others through faith, service, and relentless pursuit of purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 min
  3. Jun 16

    Matt Babcock- 2026 NBA Draft Preview

    Discover the latest in NBA draft analysis with insights into top prospects, team strategies, and how recent workouts influence draft positions. Perfect for basketball fans, scouts, and analysts looking to stay ahead of draft day.Main Topics: Recap of recent NBA combine workouts and draft prospects Evaluation of the top four draft picks and how workouts solidify their positions Impact of college basketball and international prospects on NBA draft trends Team-specific draft strategies, including Oklahoma City Thunder and Milwaukee Bucks The influence of NIL and college longevity on draft eligibility Notable risers from the combine and prospects fitting specific team needs NBA Draft Analysis & Prospects NIL and College Basketball Economics Oklahoma City Thunder Official Website Milwaukee Bucks Official Website Pangos All-American Camp LinkedIn Twitter Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the NBA draft process and recent activities 00:29 - Overview of combine workouts and draft possibilities 01:04 - Key takeaways from the draft lottery and workouts 02:30 - Top prospects: evaluations of top four players and recent developments 04:13 - How measurements and interviews shape draft decisions 05:19 - College basketball's impact on international scouting and prospects 07:01 - The future of college players staying longer in NCAA 09:24 - Next tier prospects and their draft potential 10:11 - Notable guard prospects from Houston and Tennessee 11:14 - Versatile players like Nate Amed and their draft outlook 12:20 - The importance of fit and development pathways for unexpected draft picks 12:45 - The weight of interviews versus talent evaluation 14:13 - Building team rosters and strategic draft choices 15:17 - Special focus on Oklahoma City Thunder's draft and trade possibilities 17:03 - Challenges and opportunities for rebuild scenarios like Milwaukee Bucks 19:43 - Drafting specialists and older players like Axel Lindenburg 21:40 - Comparing prospect evaluation over the years and the influence of the NCAA 23:23 - Shifts in player pools, risers from the combine, and late-round prospects 24:47 - Balancing best available vs. team needs in draft picks 26:23 - The role of NIL, college longevity, and player development 29:28 - Reflecting on last year's draft and breakout players like VJ Edgecomb 31:01 - Outlook on the upcoming post-draft evaluation and scouting strategies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
  4. Jun 12

    Dexter Gooding- Men's Assistant Basketball Coach University of Tampa and NBA Draft Trainer!

    In this episode, host Phil Friedrich sits down with Dexter Gooding — assistant men's basketball coach at the University of Tampa and NBA pre-draft trainer — to trace a career built on relentless preparation, high character, and a deep commitment to developing others. Dexter opens up about growing up in Daytona Beach, Florida, where he earned a black belt in martial arts before channeling that same discipline into basketball. Despite not being a highly recruited prospect, he earned a preferred walk-on spot at High Point University — a decision shaped in part by the campus itself, which he describes as nothing short of extraordinary. He spent two and a half years without playing time before cracking the rotation late in his junior year, going on to play for the legendary Coach Tubby Smith, whose simple philosophy — just do what you're told and maximize the opportunity in front of you — left a lasting impression.By his sophomore year, Dexter had already recognized that his future was on the coaching side of the game. He began running workouts for his own teammates during winter break, planting the seed for what would become a second career as a sought-after player developer. His break into NBA pre-draft training came by chance during COVID, when a friend's trainer didn't show up and Dexter stepped in — impressing the agent on the sideline. From there, word of mouth took over. He's since helped players like Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies), Anton Watson (Gonzaga), and Dylan Cardwell (Sacramento Kings) find their way onto NBA rosters.His coaching philosophy centers on detail and communication — breaking down concepts in ways players haven't heard before, layering in metaphors and illustrations to make ideas stick. He tailors every program to the individual, whether that's sharpening a niche skill for a role player or building out a full game for an overseas star.The conversation closes with a look at Dexter's work at the University of Tampa, where the staff navigated a difficult 8-win first season before flipping to 20 wins, an NCAA tournament appearance, and a national ranking in year two. He credits a relationship-first culture — and the example coaches set every day — as the engine behind that turnaround. With 15 of 16 players returning next season, he's optimistic about what's ahead. And his long-term goal? He puts it plainly: multiple Division I national championships as a head coach. He doesn't know exactly how he'll get there, but he's certain it's coming. To View This Episode- https://youtu.be/Dvm2iie8l70 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  5. Jun 5

    Conrad Hawley- Kansas Football To Iowa State Basketball To Chief Energy Officer!

    Most people settle for playing the game, but Conrad Hawley reveals the secret to excelling in sports—and life—by embracing relentless focus, discipline, and the power of routine. From rising as Missouri State Football Player of the Year to navigating zero margin for error at Kansas and Iowa State, Conrad's journey proves that success isn't about talent alone—it's about the habits and mindset you develop every single day. In this episode, you'll discover how Conrad’s early lessons on "listen, focus, and competitive endurance" can help you crush your goals, no matter your path. We break down the importance of mastering the fundamentals—like habit stacking from Atomic Habits—and how small daily routines, whether on the court or in the office, compound into extraordinary results. Conrad shares candid insights on dealing with coaching chaos, overcoming setbacks, and maintaining purpose through consistency and resilience. We also explore how leadership is built on the smallest actions—like showing up as the "Energy Officer" for your team—and how disciplined routines forge a culture of excellence, even amid upheaval. You'll learn why the most overlooked details, from high-fives to game-day preparation, are often the difference between good and great, and how embracing chaos as a constant can keep you centered in a chaotic world. Perfect for athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone committed to growth, this episode is your guide to developing mental toughness, building unshakable habits, and leading with purpose. Conrad's honest stories and practical strategies serve as a reminder: your greatest success comes from the habits you build in the quiet moments. Conrad Hawley is a former college athlete turned professional speaker, known for inspiring audiences with lessons on resilience, leadership, and discipline. His journey from losing scholarships to speaking on national stages exemplifies the power of perseverance and authenticity. Are you ready to elevate your game—on and off the field? Hit play and start transforming your routines into winning strategies today. To View This Episode- https://youtu.be/_XQc2EXgH9c Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    42 min
4.8
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Phil Friedrich brings high profile guests to highlight their Pivotal Moments! Who Knew In The Moment that decision would be the one to change your life forever? There are certain moments in your life that forever changed the direction of your life. Why did we decide to make that choice? Why does that certain moment stick out years later? Join us as we speak to the best and brightest to learn about their defining moments! The fascinating stories of how top performers in their field persevered to accomplish their goals.

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