Episode 101 | Michael Olzinski

Coaching Journey

Michael Olzinski describes coaching as both an art and a lifestyle, emphasizing the blend of science and personal interaction. He fell in love with training people face-to-face, realizing early on that coaching was his calling. Michael explains, "I enjoy the one-on-one interactions and trying to understand what makes a person tick and what I need to do from a programming standpoint, from a psychological standpoint, to get them where they want to go" 1. This passion led him to explore ways to make coaching a sustainable career, beyond the limitations of one-on-one sessions 2.

   

Influences

Influential figures like Matt Dixon played a pivotal role in shaping Michael's coaching philosophy. Initially inspired by Dixon's focus on recovery, Michael's journey began with a $200 phone consultation that eventually led to a life-changing internship 3. His early fascination with the Olympics, particularly the 1996 Atlanta Games, also fueled his passion for athletics. "I remember watching the ten K and thinking, this is rad, these guys and these girls are just flying," he recalls, highlighting the lasting impact of these experiences on his career 4.

   

Coaching Balance

The transition from cheerleader to coach is a nuanced journey that Michael navigates with care. He acknowledges the importance of balancing encouragement with actionable advice, noting, "A coach can't just be a cheerleader; a coach has to be real and give a good perspective" 5. This balance is crucial, especially when guiding athletes through challenging decisions and maintaining their focus on long-term goals. Michael emphasizes that while positivity is important, a coach's role is to provide structure and guidance, even if it means being the "bad guy" at times 6.