#341: Mike Garber-Glenwood (IL) High School | Relentlessly Positive Coaching

From Glenwood alum to head coach, Mike Garber shares how a mentor’s relentless positivity shaped his coaching, why he treats the classroom like five daily “shows,” and how he helps athletes do what they never thought possible.

🧠 Mindset shift: from “have to” → “get to”

🦸 Mentors & modeling: Coach Mike Johnson’s lasting impact

🏫 Teaching first: tech in the classroom, FCA, and lifelong learning

🔁 The four stages of coaching: eager → intoxicated → sober → serene

🧩 Building staff & culture: assistants, clarity, and service

🏃 Program roots: returning home to Glenwood and staying for the long haul

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family balance: gratitude for a spouse who makes it possible

🔮 What’s next at Glenwood: belief, confidence, and unlocking ceilings

“I was called to be here. This is my calling.” — Mike Garber

🌟 Explore Our Library: Dive into 300+ episodes featuring insights from coaching legends such as Boo Schexnayder and Dan Pfaff, Diljeet Taylor (BYU) and Beth Alford-Sullivan, as well as superstar coaches Petros Kyprianou (Illinois), Althea Thomas (Vanderbilt) and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure.

🎙️ Create Your Own Podcast Episode: Reach out to Mike Cunningham for instruction on how to create your very own Gill1918 Project episode, which airs Tuesdays through Sundays. Find YOUR voice on the Gill Connections Podcast Network.

📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍