Episode 3: Navigating Mental Health in Sports Leadership with Jay Miller

The CCPA Playbook

Guest: Jay Miller – Head Softball Coach & Interim Athletic Director, Lake Sumter State College
Host: Cregg Dalton
Description:
In this powerful and introspective episode, Coach Jay Miller joins host Cregg Dalton to discuss the evolving role of mental health in athletics and leadership. As the head softball coach and interim athletic director at Lake Sumter State College, Jay brings raw honesty and deep insight into the emotional realities of coaching, leadership, and personal growth.
From his unconventional coaching philosophy featured in his book The Island to his reflections on the grit-versus-talent debate, Jay shares how building a strong, supportive culture goes far beyond wins and losses. The conversation touches on everything from the importance of open communication and mentorship to the often-overlooked challenge of maintaining work-life balance in high-pressure environments.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or leader in any field, this episode offers a refreshing and relatable perspective on the importance of mental wellness, accountability, and staying grounded in your “why.”
Key Themes:
*Mental wellness in coaching
*Culture over competition
*Accountability & open communication
*Leadership through relatability
*Grit vs. talent
*Professional growth through everyday moments
Memorable Quotes:
“We are unapologetically us.”
“I worry about them as people.”
“I am an insecure overachiever.”

**If anyone’s interested in Jay’s book The Island, they can grab it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1711042404?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_TZ2SDWYYYSBVA5EHQB0M&bestFormat=true