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In Episode 354 of the Glass and Out Podcast, we're joined by Cleveland Monsters Head Coach Nick Bootland.

He is currently in his first season at the helm of the Cleveland Monsters, the AHL affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets. His appointment comes after four seasons and two Calder Cup Championships in Hershey as an assistant coach on Todd Nelson’s staff, and 14 seasons leading the Kalamazoo Wings of the ECHL.

We always want to get to the goal faster. It’s human nature. But patience is a virtue. So is trusting that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Bootland is proof of that.

Listen as he shares why coaching is about leading with authenticity, the SCCRR process for teaching, and how to stay calm on the bench in times of stress.

Video Timestamps:

• 0:00 TCS App
• 0:55 Reflecting on journey to AHL
• 6:55 Going to the right places
• 11:15 From player to coach
• 16:05 Authenticity and vulnerability
• 18:45 Mental health aspect of coaching
• 23:20 Biggest learning curve in Kalamazoo
• 28:35 Figuring it out on the fly
• 33:10 Teaching in Hershey
• 39:10 Lessons from Rick Bowness Bones
• 41:50 Creating a culture of ownership
• 50:35 “CEO sweeps the barn”
• 55:10 Focus areas early in the season
• 57:30 Staying calm under pressure
• 1:08:30 Growing up in Shelburne
• 1:14:50 Coaching mentors
• 1:15:30 Life in Cleveland