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Join host Kirk Spahn as he speaks with world champions about ways to elevate and equip tomorrow's champions and leaders. Drawing on his extensive background as a fourth-generation educator, founder of the Institute for Civic Leadership, and former competitive tennis player, Kirk explores the intersection of elite performance, character development, and lifelong success.
In each episode, Kirk sits down with remarkable achievers across sports, business, arts, and education to uncover the hidden foundations of true championship mindsets. Through substantive dialogues, guests share the pivotal moments, mentors, failures, and principles that shaped their journeys—revealing insights that parents, coaches, educators, and aspiring leaders can apply immediately.
Building Champions for Life goes beyond trophies and accolades to examine how exceptional performance in any field connects to deeper purpose and lasting impact. With Kirk's unique perspective spanning both traditional education and innovative learning approaches, listeners gain practical wisdom on nurturing not just skills and talents, but the character traits that create champions who thrive in all aspects of life.
Whether you're a parent supporting a child's dreams, a coach developing the next generation of talent, an educator shaping young minds, or someone striving for personal excellence, this podcast delivers actionable insights from those who've reached the pinnacle of achievement while maintaining their core values and purpose.
Subscribe to join the conversation about what truly makes a champion for life—in the arena and beyond.
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| Episode | Date |
|---|---|
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The Way of Excellence: Stanley Bronstein on Embracing Change and Becoming Your Best Self
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Mar 11, 2026 |
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Breaking the Mold: Tiffany Sorya's Unconventional Path to Student Success
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Mar 04, 2026 |
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Redefining Disability: Scott Martin on Transforming Obstacles Into Triumph
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Feb 04, 2026 |
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From WTA Champion to Mentor: Coco Vandeweghe on Cultivating Resilient, Self-Driven Athletes
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Jan 28, 2026 |
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YouTube Co-Founder Steve Chen on Building World-Changing Innovation
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Jan 21, 2026 |
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Craig Kaplan's Vision for Transparent, Safe Superintelligent Systems
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Jan 14, 2026 |
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Transforming Others' Lives Through Influence with Angela Lewis
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Jan 07, 2026 |
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The Prosperity Revolution: Randy Gage's Vision for Abundance-Based Consciousness
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Dec 31, 2025 |
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Self-Trust Over Self-Doubt: Kate Allgood on the Science of Mental Resilience
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Dec 24, 2025 |
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Saving Lives After Service: Matt Maples' Vision for Veteran Support
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Dec 17, 2025 |
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Building Legacies: Marques Ogden on Overcoming Adversity and Impacting Community
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Dec 10, 2025 |
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More Than Basketball: Zaza Pachulia on Mentorship, Mindset, and Lasting Influence
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Dec 03, 2025 |
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Blueprints to Billions: Lance Cayko's Architectural Empire
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Nov 12, 2025 |
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Jason Reid on Winning at Life: The Hidden Struggles of High Achievers
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Nov 05, 2025 |
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Alan Lazaros on Tracking Success: The Power of Metrics in Personal Growth
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Oct 29, 2025 |
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Good Peopling: Elizabeth Bieniek on the Art of Leadership
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Oct 22, 2025 |
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Rewriting Education: Dr. Danny Brassell's Innovative Teaching Strategies
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Oct 15, 2025 |
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Dean Taylor on Rediscovering Purpose: A Working Dad's Transformation
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Oct 08, 2025 |
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Beyond the Base Path: Transforming Athletic Skills into Entrepreneurial Success with James Hilovsky
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Oct 01, 2025 |
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Safety First: Anna Reger's Innovative Approach to School Protection
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Sep 23, 2025 |
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The Joy Success Cycle: Finding Joy in Every Task with Kevin Surace
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Sep 16, 2025 |
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Transforming Tragedy into Purpose with Heidi Johnson
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Sep 09, 2025 |
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From Battlefield to Boardroom: Craig Andrews' Journey
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Sep 02, 2025 |
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Mind Over Matter: Dan Jansen on Perseverance and Giving Back
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Jul 24, 2025 |
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From Touchdowns to Tech: The Multifaceted Mission of Blake Corum
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Jun 04, 2025 |
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Beyond the Baseline: Iva Jovic’s Journey On and Off the Court
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May 27, 2025 |
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Building Champions for Life: The 6 P's with Kirk Spahn
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May 10, 2025 |
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Building Champions for Life Introduction
|
Apr 12, 2025 |