REFLECTIONS: Why words matter!

Coaching Culture with Ben Herring

Ever wondered why certain coaches' words stick with you for decades? That's not coincidence – it's the powerful alchemy of language and leadership.
Words shape our reality as coaches and leaders. When we speak, we're not merely giving instructions or feedback – we're literally creating the internal dialogue that plays in our athletes' minds long after practice ends. This episode explores the profound neurochemical impact of coaching language: positive reinforcement triggers dopamine, enhancing motivation and learning, while negative criticism spikes cortisol, shutting down the very cognitive functions athletes need most.
Through personal stories from my rugby career and coaching journey, I unpack why technical expertise sometimes matters less than emotional intelligence in coaching relationships. Remember those C-team teachers who coached because they had to? Their encouraging words created safety and confidence that technical coaches often miss. I contrast this with the traditional pre-game hatred-fueled diatribes that leave many players disengaged, sharing instead how All Blacks legend Jerry Collins approached rivalry through love of competition rather than animosity.
As leaders, we're the headwaters from which team culture flows. One precisely delivered phrase can shape a player's entire career trajectory. The question isn't whether your words matter – it's how intentionally you're wielding their power. Are you creating dopamine or cortisol in your players? Building resilience or reinforcing doubt? Ready to transform your coaching impact through the language of leadership? Listen now, then watch how your words reshape your team's reality.
What coaching phrase has stuck with you longest, either lifting you up or holding you back? Share your story and let's explore the lasting impact of words in leadership.

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Chapters

1. Why Words Matter in Coaching (00:00:00)

2. Words Shape Internal Player Dialogue (00:02:05)

3. Negative Language vs. Loving the Game (00:04:18)

4. Don't Waste Your Bullets (00:05:54)

5. Your Words Shape Players' Careers (00:09:19)

6. Coach's Tone Sets Team Culture (00:10:07)