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: 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.

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Sep 3

    The Mentor Sessions | Why Most Men Are Stuck in Old Patterns (And How to Fix It)

    Join us for a profound conversation with Bill Simpson as we delve into the concept of unlearning conditioning and its impact on men's growth. In this video, we explore the societal expectations and norms that shape masculine identity and how they can limit personal growth and development. Bill shares his insights and expertise on how to break free from these conditioning patterns, embracing a more authentic and whole version of oneself. Through this deep dive, we aim to inspire and empower men to re-examine their values, beliefs, and behaviors, and to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Whether you're looking to challenge traditional notions of masculinity or simply seeking a more nuanced understanding of what it means to be a man, this video is for you. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will leave you questioning, reflecting, and ultimately, growing. 0:00 A Journey Through Childhood Trauma 2:58 The Pattern of Overlapping Relationships 5:23 The Defining Moment of Clarity 7:14 Reflecting on Unstable Beginnings 10:04 The Power of Emotional Connection 14:06 The Mask of the Radio Personality 17:30 Acting Before You Feel Ready 22:04 Supporting Each Other Through Hardship 31:26 Guiding Men Toward Healing

  6. Aug 27

    The Mentor Sessions | If Jesus Smoked Cigars: Creating Community in a Digital World

    Building a strong organizational culture is essential for long-term success. Learn how to improve your team dynamic and support systems. In this episode of The Mentor Sessions, host Big Mike breaks down why a healthy work environment matters for employees, customers, and vendors. We examine how the right support systems directly influence productivity and retention, providing a clear roadmap for leaders who want to foster better workplace relationships. Whether you are managing a small department or a large organization, understanding the nuances of your team dynamic is the first step toward meaningful improvement. Personal growth does not happen in a vacuum. This discussion highlights how effective leadership mentoring and collaborative processes can accelerate professional development. You will walk away with a better understanding of how to structure your environment to prioritize growth, ensuring that both your staff and your business partners feel valued and supported. Subscribe for weekly leadership breakdowns, and comment below on which aspect of company culture you find most challenging to navigate. https://ifjesus.com/ https://thevault.live/ https://a.co/d/00T1HXn5 https://www.instagram.com/_ifjesus

  7. Aug 20

    The Mentor Sessions | Inside the Fund Betting on African Media, Tech, and Storytelling

    The conversation delves into the journey of media professional Alykhan Kaba, exploring the impact of media on social perception and its role in sub-Saharan Africa. It also discusses the intersection of economic value and social impact, leadership values in media, and the importance of balancing economic and social impact. The conversation concludes with insights on mentorship and the significance of soft inputs in leadership. The conversation delves into the importance of empowering individuals to feel excited about being proactive and balancing compliance-driven structures with a sense of levity and fun. It highlights the need to create a world where people want to do their best work and feel valued. Takeaways Media as a tool for social impactBalancing economic value with social impact Empowering people to feel excited about being proactiveBalancing compliance-driven structure with a sense of levity and fun Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Media and Social Impact02:52 The Impact of Media on Perception06:06 Media's Role in Sub-Saharan Africa11:09 Media for Social and Economic Development17:05 Leadership and Values in Media25:51 Balancing Economic and Social Impact32:02 Mentorship and Soft Inputs in Leadership38:49 Empowerment and Proactivity

  8. Aug 13

    The Mentor Sessions: Doctor Said I'd Never Be Strong Again | Big Sarge Proved Him Wrong

    William Big Sarge Hansen shares his journey from a family legacy of military service to his own experiences in the Marine Corps, injuries sustained in combat, and the path to recovery through physical training and mentorship. His dedication to helping others and finding strength in shared experiences is a testament to the power of service and teamwork. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including physical and mental challenges, the impact of motion on life, recovery and revamping, understanding pain and recovery, the importance of planning and preparation, balancing physical and mental health, the role of mentors and coaches, the journey of self-improvement, the impact of cardio on strength training, the journey of a strongman competitor, the importance of mentors and role models, the significance of family and community, and the importance of self-care and self-improvement. Takeaways * Legacy of service and sacrifice * The healing power of physical training and mentorship The importance of physical activity for mental and physical well-being * The significance of mentors and role models in guiding and inspiring personal growth Chapters * 00:00 The Legacy of Service * 02:57 Injuries and Recovery * 08:47 Mentorship and Healing * 21:13 Physical Training and Teamwork * 43:09 The Challenge of Change * 44:05 The Importance of Physical Activity * 44:56 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Training * 45:26 The Impact of Motion on Life * 46:22 Recovery and Revamping * 46:49 Understanding Pain and Recovery * 49:38 The Importance of Planning and Preparation * 50:26 Balancing Physical and Mental Health * 55:01 The Role of Mentors and Coaches * 56:48 The Journey of Self-Improvement * 57:18 The Impact of Cardio on Strength Training * 58:17 The Journey of a Strongman Competitor * 01:00:08 The Importance of Mentors and Role Models * 01:09:58 The Significance of Family and Community * 01:16:21 The Importance of Self-Care and Self-Improvement Takeaways Legacy of service and sacrificeThe healing power of physical training and mentorship The importance of physical activity for mental and physical well-beingThe significance of mentors and role models in guiding and inspiring personal growth Chapters 00:00 The Legacy of Service02:57 Injuries and Recovery08:47 Mentorship and Healing21:13 Physical Training and Teamwork43:09 The Challenge of Change44:05 The Importance of Physical Activity44:56 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Training45:26 The Impact of Motion on Life46:22 Recovery and Revamping46:49 Understanding Pain and Recovery49:38 The Importance of Planning and Preparation50:26 Balancing Physical and Mental Health55:01 The Role of Mentors and Coaches56:48 The Journey of Self-Improvement57:18 The Impact of Cardio on Strength Training58:17 The Journey of a Strongman Competitor01:00:08 The Importance of Mentors and Role Models01:09:58 The Significance of Family and Community01:16:21 The Importance of Self-Care and Self-Improvement

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5
out of 5
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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
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BigMike Coyle
  • Show Website
    The Mentor Sessions