Episode 138: "Coach the Heart First" with Greg Gisinger

In Episode 138 of The Mental Mettle Podcast, “Coach the Heart First,” Coach Matt Thomann sits down with Coach Greg Gisinger to explore what it really looks like to move from fear-based, results-only coaching to a heart-first, relationship-driven approach. After more than 20 years in boys’ high school basketball and a successful run as head boys coach at Arcola High School, Greg made the surprising decision to step away from a winning boys program and take over a struggling girls team—precisely because he sensed he was being called to coach differently and more deeply.​

From fear-based to heart-first coaching

Greg shares how he came to realize that, in his early years, he was “coaching out of fear, not love,” using an old-school iron-fist style that produced wins but left him feeling empty even during Elite Eight and Sweet 16 runs. Over time—and with the influence of 3D and 360 coaching models—he began to shift toward coaching the heart first, focusing on impactful relationships, identity, and character before tactics and scoreboard. That transformation has not softened his teams; it has produced groups that are tougher, more connected, and more resilient on and off the floor.​

Spiritual caddies and foxhole brothers

A powerful thread in this episode is the role of accountability and spiritual support in Greg’s growth as a coach, husband, and father. He talks about a former player from an Elite Eight team who is now his “spiritual caddy”—a trusted brother who walks with him daily through Scripture, prayer, honesty, and shared “God shots” via text. Greg explains why every coach (and every man) needs a “foxhole brother” and spiritual accountability partner who will both encourage and lovingly call them out.​

Coaching change, family change, life change

Greg also reflects on how his internal coaching shift has changed who he is at home, not just on the bench. Leaving a successful boys program to stabilize and rebuild the girls side required humility, obedience, and a willingness to let go of ego and status in order to serve where he was most needed. Through that process, his joy in coaching has deepened, his family is getting a better version of him, and he is more committed than ever to leading with love while still demanding toughness and accountability.​

If you are a coach, parent, or leader who feels there must be more to this than chasing the scoreboard, Episode 138 will challenge you to rethink how you measure success, how you relate to your athletes, and who you invite into your own foxhole as you learn to coach the heart first. Subscribe to The Mental Mettle Podcast and continue forging your 100% Mettle in every area of life.​