Growth in the Waiting Room: Lessons I Learned From Two Interviews
What’s Next After Interviewing for Two Big Roles? Let’s Talk.
Hey friends,
Let’s talk about something many of us go through... but few of us really talk about:
Interviewing.
Recently, I went through two significant professional interview processes—one for a lead role, and the other for an assistant role. While I won’t disclose the organizations (out of respect and professionalism), I do want to share what I learned during this time. Because, if we’re being honest, these moments shape us more than we realize.
This newsletter isn’t about “what happened” in the end—it’s about what happened in me during the process.
So here’s the real story behind the suits, the scheduling, and the follow-ups.
✨ Part One: How the Interviews Went
Two Different Seats at the Table
The first role was a lead position—one that would have allowed me to shape vision, drive strategy, and lead from the front. The second was an assistant role—supportive, foundational, and just as impactful, but from a different vantage point.
Each interview required a different version of me. Not a different person, but a different posture.
In one, I had to show what I could build. In the other, what I could support.
I found myself shifting my mindset, language, and examples—not to impress anyone, but to truly meet the moment with clarity.
💡 Part Two: What I Learned
This is where things really got interesting.
1. There Are More Decision-Makers Than You Think
One of the biggest revelations: hiring isn’t linear. It’s not just the director or VP making the call—it’s a collective. That means how you show up for everyone matters. From HR to peers to panelists… they’re all part of the process.
This made me think about legacy.
How do I treat people? How do I show up in every conversation? Not just the “important” ones.
2. Your Network is an Asset—If You Water It
Yes, résumés help. But relationships accelerate.
It became clear during these interviews that the people who vouched for me—who mentioned my name, shared kind words, or sent texts behind the scenes—played a role. And that’s not luck. That’s intentional connection.
So my takeaway: continue building, not for opportunity, but for community.
3. People Are Standing on the Table for Me
I found out that people I’ve worked with—some I haven’t spoken to in a while—are going out of their way to advocate for me. That’s both humbling and energizing.
When you show up with integrity, consistency, and service… people remember.
That made me emotional. Honestly.
🚀 Part Three: Where Do I Go From Here
I’m moving forward—energized and refocused. And here’s what’s next:
🔹 2025 Player Development Summit
All gas, no brakes.
May 29–31 in Kansas City.
This summit is going to be something special—and I’m working every day to make it unforgettable for those who serve athletes.
If you’re in the player development space, you’ll want to be in the room.
🔹 Sharpening My Skills
I’m continuing to invest in my communication, content, storytelling, and résumé clarity.
Growth doesn’t stop because you didn’t get the role.
It deepens.
🔹 Celebrating Progress
No role defines me.
But every opportunity reminds me I’m on the right path.
So I’m cracking open a Root Beer Olipop, toasting the journey, and staying grateful.
(And if you’re reading this, Olipop, let’s collaborate. 😉)
🎧 Final Word
I wanted to share this because interviewing can feel like a lonely road—especially in our industry.
But it’s not. You’re not alone.
Whether you’re applying, interviewing, or just reflecting... you’re building something.
So here’s what I’d tell you if we were face-to-face:
Prepare like it’s already yours
Show up like your name is already in the room
And walk away knowing that you’re becoming the version of yourself you’re meant to be
That’s the win. That’s the work.
I'd love to hear from you—what has interviewing taught you lately?
Comment below or reply directly. Let’s grow together.
📌 P.S.
Tickets for the Player Development Summit are available.
If this podcast and newsletter have ever added value to your life—come be in the room. Grab your seat here.
You can watch and receive more detail on my most recent interview process here: