Coaching to Re-Light the Spark: A Conversation with Joe DeGain
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Sometimes the spark that first ignited our passion dims over time. The pressures of daily life, travel, and even the demands of doing what we love can leave us feeling drained. Yet, true growth often comes when we revisit our “why,” when we find mentors who challenge us, and when we lean into hard conversations that shape not just our careers, but our character.
In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis welcomes Joe DeGain, longtime CrossFit Flowmaster, coach of coaches, and life coach at joedegain.com. Joe shares his journey from a high school teacher discovering CrossFit in a weight room, to coaching thousands of athletes and trainers around the world, and now guiding people in leadership and personal development.
Their conversation explores what separates great coaches from good ones, the six criteria CrossFit uses to measure coaching effectiveness, and how leadership lessons extend far beyond the gym. Joe also opens up about the daily routines, relationships, and mindset strategies that keep him grounded, motivated, and able to serve others, even when burnout or complacency loom.
In this episode, you’ll hear why Joe believes legacy isn’t about names or titles, but about the lessons that ripple outward, passed down from coach to athlete, mentor to student, and parent to child. His challenge is simple: stay curious, keep it simple, and never lose sight of the real mission—health, wellness, and being of service to others.
Key Takeaways:
– Passion often starts with curiosity, but lasting impact comes from staying grounded in your “why.”
– Great coaches excel not just in teaching movement but in presence, attitude, and group management.
– Simplicity in communication often makes coaching more effective than technical jargon.
– The best leaders adapt their approach to meet each individual’s unique needs.
– Consistency in habits, such as a morning routine, can fuel resilience and clarity.
– Surrounding yourself with the right people prevents complacency and drives growth.
– Burnout often signals distraction—refocusing on health and wellness helps restore purpose.
– Hard conversations, though uncomfortable, are the seeds of lasting change.
– Legacy is less about recognition and more about the ripple effect of lessons passed on.
– Staying curious keeps both coaches and leaders fresh, effective, and inspired.
Chapters
00:57 Introduction
02:25 A Crossfit Career
08:19 Advice for Coaches
12:48 Great Coaches
15:14 Mindset
17:07 Mistakes Coaches Make
23:45 Impact of Coaching
28:34 Staying Sharp
44:16 Compounding Change in CrossFit
48:57 Leaving a Legacy
50:20 Final Thoughts
Helpful Links:
Joe DeGain, CrossFit LLC: https://games.crossfit.com/athlete/46032
Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/
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18 episodes