Episode 118: Unified Hearts, Fearless Minds, and National Championships with Greg Tonagel

January 7, 2026

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Discover how winning teams are built on culture, not just X’s and O’s, in the latest episode of the Mental Mettle Podcast! Episode 118, “Unified Hearts, Fearless Minds, and National Championships with Greg Tonagel,” takes you inside the mind and methods of one of college basketball’s most transformational coaches.

Meet Greg Tonagel — Winningest Coach in College Hoops

Greg Tonagel, head coach at Indiana Wesleyan University, is the fastest coach in collegiate history to reach 500 wins and boasts three NAIA National Championships. But it’s not just about the trophies—Tonagel’s real legacy is the fearless, unified culture he’s created. With 27 NAIA All-Americans coached, 13 regular season championships, and five league tournament titles, his program is a national powerhouse that prioritizes mental toughness, positive culture, and transformational leadership.

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen

Coach Matt Thomann dives deep with Coach Tonagel, who shares why removing fear from coaching unlocks higher potential, more joy, and greater long-term success—for both athletes and coaches. Tonagel explains:

How coaching out of fear limits growth and performance
The process of shifting to a transformational, positive leadership style
Why “unified hearts and fearless minds” is the foundation of championship teams
Practical strategies you can use to build this culture within your own teams
The “I’m Third” philosophy: God first, others second, self third—and its impact on performance, fulfillment, and resilience
Real stories and examples on how this approach wins titles and changes lives

Key Takeaways for Coaches, Educators, and Leaders

Move beyond transactional coaching—create real transformation in your team culture
Learn actionable techniques to foster fearlessness and unity in athletes
Discover how biblical principles and positive psychology overlap to create thriving, resilient teams
Hear why validation, empathy, and growth mindset are crucial for mental performance
Find inspiration to choose culture and character over old-school fear tactics

Tune In Now

If you are a coach, educator, or leader who wants to move past outdated coaching styles and help your athletes reach their full potential, don’t miss Episode 118 of the Mental Mettle Podcast with Coach Matt Thomann. This is your blueprint for building championship culture from the inside out—with proven results.

→ Listen, subscribe, and share with coaching friends who want to win the right way!

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