The Mentor Sessions

BigMike Coyle
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Kids & Family

The Mentor Sessions is a podcast about the people who shape us—and the responsibility we carry to do the same for others. None of us become who we are on our own. Behind every leader, every parent, every builder, every person striving for something more… there was someone who took the time to guide them. In each episode, BigMike sits down with people from all walks of life—leaders, veterans, coaches, entrepreneurs, and everyday individuals with extraordinary stories—to uncover the mentors who changed their lives, the lessons they carry forward, and the wisdom they’re passing on. These aren’t surface-level conversations. These are real discussions about: Connection and belongingLeadership and responsibilityResilience, failure, and growthPurpose, identity, and legacyThe moments—and people—that define us If you’ve ever had a mentor… needed one… or felt the pull to become one—this is your place. Because none of us walk the path alone.

  1. 1d ago

    The Mentor Sessions | The Secret to Finding Purpose After losing Everything

    The conversation features Kurtis Gabriel, a former professional hockey player, discussing his journey from childhood to the NHL, the impact of his father's suicide on his life, and his struggles with identity and mental health after retiring from hockey. He shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the role of male figures in his life, and the journey towards self-discovery and healing. The conversation explores Kurtis Gabriel's transformative journey from a professional hockey player to a seeker of deeper meaning in life, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, self-discovery, and the integration of spiritual teachings into everyday life. Takeaways Importance of mentorshipImpact of parental loss Transformation through self-discoveryThe role of mentorship in healing Chapters 00:00 Kurtis Gabriel's Hockey Journey04:07 The Impact of Loss07:57 Finding Identity in Hockey12:14 The Role of Mentorship21:59 Struggles with Mental Health29:54 The Path to Healing37:33 The Awakening Journey38:30 Integration of Spiritual Teachings39:24 Facing Suffering and Ego42:08 Finding a Mentor56:06 The Power of Community01:01:14 Living from the Zone01:03:17 The Importance of Presence01:12:22 Finding Your People

  2. Oct 22

    The Mentor Sessions | Collaboration vs. Competition: A Michelin Chef’s View

    Here's a copy-paste ready description for this episode: From watching the Food Network as a kid to cooking in Michelin-star kitchens with Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay — Chef Dewey's journey is about passion, resilience, and reinvention. In this Mentor Session, Chef Dewey shares how a childhood fascination with shows like Barefoot Contessa — so different from the Liberian dishes at home — led his mother to enroll him in culinary school. He opens up about mastering pastry and culinary arts, what high-pressure kitchens taught him about consistency and preparation, and the cutthroat moments that tested him, including having his knife stolen. And here's what I've learned: After stepping away, it was teaching his nephew to cook that reignited his fire and led him to build The Kobe Experience — his private chef business crafting personalized, allergy-conscious menus around each client. If you've ever had to start over to find your purpose again, this conversation is for you. Let me leave you with this — resilience isn't about never breaking. It's about finding your way back to what you love. In this episode: Early inspiration and falling in love with food Training and cooking with legends Lessons from high-pressure kitchens Rediscovering purpose through mentorship Building The Kobe Experience as a private chef Be sure to subscribe to The Mentor Sessions for more real conversations on mentorship, growth, and life lessons. Drop a comment — what moment reignited YOUR passion? #Mentorship #ChefStory #PersonalGrowth

  3. Oct 15

    The Mentor Sessions | He Left Corporate to Build a Watch Brand From His Dining Table

    Dave Moggio built one of the fastest-growing watch microbrands from his dining table. Learn how he escaped corporate life. Dave Moggio shares his founder story, detailing the transition from managing global teams at Mac Trucks to launching La Terrain. This conversation is for anyone feeling stuck in a career they have outgrown and wondering how to bet on themselves. We explore how he moved from $300 of inventory to a full-time business. Beyond the business metrics, we discuss his specific product design philosophy, applying lessons from automotive and tech to create watches that punch above their weight. We also tackle the reality of corporate burnout, discussing the importance of family, fatherhood, and leaving a legacy that matters more than a job title. Subscribe to The Mentor Sessions for more conversations on building a meaningful life. What legacy are you building right now? Drop your thoughts in the comments. 0:00 The Art of Timekeeping 0:59 Defining Personal Core Values 3:15 From Allentown to Automotive 7:05 The Transition Into Leadership 10:02 The Breaking Point of Burnout 11:50 Turning a Passion Into a Career 34:19 The Gamble That Saved the Brand 53:34 Giving Back Through Timepieces

  4. Oct 8

    The Mentor Sessions | The Lex Street Massacre: What Really Happened Behind the Headlines

    We examine the Lex Street Massacre to understand how one conversation can change a life. Discover the truth behind the case. In this episode, BigMike sits down with Antonne Jones to discuss the tragic events of December 2000 in West Philadelphia. We look past the headlines to analyze the flaws in the criminal justice system, including coerced confessions and institutional failure that defined the investigation. Antonne shares his personal journey from early mistakes to finding purpose, highlighting how his own path toward accountability was shaped by the guidance of others. This conversation is for anyone looking to understand the real impact of mentorship in our communities. We discuss why young men need consistent, present role models to steer them away from the streets and toward a new future. It is a raw look at how we can support the next generation by being the voice they need to hear. Subscribe to The Mentor Sessions for weekly conversations on becoming the man your family and community need. Who was the one person who saw your potential, and who are you mentoring right now? Let us know in the comments. Watch the series here Buy the book here

  5. Oct 1

    The Mentor Sessions: How to Build a Life of Purpose (Even When You Are Stuck)

    Here's a copy-paste ready description for this episode: Feeling stuck? In this episode of The Mentor Sessions, David Kincaid shares how he went from a federal government career to becoming a world-traveling coach — and how you can build a life of purpose too. This isn't surface-level advice. This is a real conversation about mentorship, identity, resilience, love, vulnerability, and trauma — and the universal longing we all share for purpose and human connection. If you're navigating a transition, wrestling with who you are, or searching for what's next, this one is for you. In this episode: ✅ Embrace struggles for growth ✅ How mentorship fosters resilience ✅ Why love requires vulnerability ✅ How purpose drives human connection CHAPTERS: 00:00 David's Journey from Government to Coaching 03:06 The Role of Education in Identity Formation 05:54 The Importance of Mentorship and Human Connection 10:09 Struggles as a Path to Growth 14:01 The Collective Nature of Humanity 17:01 The Role of Mentors in Navigating Life's Challenges 21:08 Empathy and Support in Mentorship 24:54 Overcoming Trauma and Building Resilience 30:18 Embracing Love and Vulnerability 33:53 The Power of Reflection and Growth 39:32 Understanding Trauma and Healing 42:51 Finding Joy and Purpose in Life 50:18 The Universal Longing for Purpose Let me leave you with this — you don't have to figure this out alone. What was the moment that hit you most? Drop it in the comments — I read every one. Subscribe to The Mentor Sessions with BigMike for real conversations on mentorship, personal growth, fatherhood, and becoming the man you were made to be. New episodes weekly.

  6. Sep 24

    The Mentor Sessions: Are You Actually Developing Your People?

    What is the real difference between mentorship vs management? Learn how to better develop your people and lead with impact. Big Mike and Ken Elliott break down the essential distinction between managing tasks and truly guiding individuals. If you are looking to refine your approach to leadership guidance, this conversation highlights why tailoring your support to the unique needs of each person is non-negotiable for long-term success. We discuss how to move beyond basic oversight to foster genuine professional development. Whether you are navigating your own growth or helping someone else realize their potential, you will hear practical insights on overcoming adversity and the obligation to pay forward the support you have received. Subscribe for weekly leadership breakdowns, and comment below on a mentor who changed your career path. 0:00 The Subtle Art of Believing in Others 1:13 From Law to the Sidelines 4:08 Lessons Learned on the Football Field 7:26 Bonding Through the Game 10:48 The Art of the Debrief 16:20 Mentoring from the Defense Table 26:46 The Mentor Who Saw Potential First 35:21 When the Student Becomes the Mentor

  7. Sep 17

    The Mentor Sessions | What I Learned About Trust From 10 Years in the Military

    The conversation covers topics such as personal development, military experience, gratitude, and the power of living in the moment. It also delves into the importance of handwritten communication and the impact of being present in significant moments. Atlas Aultman shares his experiences working in the military, including his role in Iraq and his transition to the White House. He discusses the challenges he faced, the leadership he encountered, and the growth moments that shaped his career. Takeaways GratitudeLiving in the momentThe power of handwritten communication Leadership in the military requires trust, delegation, and the ability to lead by example.Imposter syndrome can affect even the most experienced individuals, and it's important to seek guidance and support during challenging moments. Chapters 00:00 The Significance of Being Present in the Moment01:02:09 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome

  8. Sep 10

    The Mentor Sessions | Why You Need a Mentor to Grow in Your Faith

    Learn how Christ-centered leadership shapes your professional life and why suffering is not always sin. Discover how to grow through faith. Elias Curtis discusses the vital role of mentorship and how receiving guidance can accelerate your personal growth. This conversation explores the intersection of ministry and business, offering perspective on how to integrate your faith into your daily work. Whether you are seeking to improve your integrity as a leader or looking to better understand the impact of suffering on your spiritual walk, this discussion provides practical wisdom for your journey. We also look at the importance of being a teachable student, the weight of scripture, and the necessity of humility in leadership. By examining the connection between discipleship and business, you will gain insights into how sanctification and hope in Christ guide us through difficult seasons. This session is designed for anyone wanting to align their career with their convictions while navigating the complexities of professional relationships. Subscribe for weekly leadership breakdowns, and let us know in the comments how you balance your faith in the workplace. 0:00 The Power of Shared Stories 1:08 From Design to Discipleship 2:31 The Joy of Being Pop-Pop 3:41 Finding Purpose in Dark Times 9:06 The Mentor Who Changed Everything 29:45 Navigating Values in Business 42:02 The Virtue of Teachability

See All (24)

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Mentor Sessions is a podcast about the people who shape us—and the responsibility we carry to do the same for others. None of us become who we are on our own. Behind every leader, every parent, every builder, every person striving for something more… there was someone who took the time to guide them. In each episode, BigMike sits down with people from all walks of life—leaders, veterans, coaches, entrepreneurs, and everyday individuals with extraordinary stories—to uncover the mentors who changed their lives, the lessons they carry forward, and the wisdom they’re passing on. These aren’t surface-level conversations. These are real discussions about: Connection and belongingLeadership and responsibilityResilience, failure, and growthPurpose, identity, and legacyThe moments—and people—that define us If you’ve ever had a mentor… needed one… or felt the pull to become one—this is your place. Because none of us walk the path alone.

Information

  • Creator
    BigMike Coyle
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BigMike Coyle
  • Show Website
    The Mentor Sessions