The Jon Gordon Podcast

In this extended interview, bestselling author Jon Gordon and Clemson University Football Coach Dabo Swinney talk about positive leadership, team building, overcoming adversity and much more.

In this episode Jon Gordon interviews Coach George Raveling. Quoteables below.

George, in his 80's at the time of this recording, is a living legend. He is Nike’s former Director of International Basketball and the first African American head basketball coach in the PAC-8 (now PAC-12).

Coach Raveling has held head coaching jobs at Washington State, The University of Iowa, and USC. Following a prolific basketball coaching career, he joined Nike at the request of Phil Knight, where he played an integral role in signing a reluctant Michael Jordan. He’s also been inducted in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as well as the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

During this conversation George shares his perspective on winning in sports, business and the game of life... as well as a fascinating story of how he came to possess the original copy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Connect with George on Twitter @GeorgeRaveling or at CoachGeorgeRaveling.com

A few quoteables from this interview:

• Some people say "I don’t have time." No, all you have is time. It’s how you prioritize your time that matters.
• The problem is... we get into WHO is right and WHO is wrong vs WHAT is right and WHAT is wrong.
• Don’t be so focused on winning on the court that it blinds you from helping those you coach win off the court.
• The minute you think you’ve won, you’ve lost. - Phil Knight
• Every day I remind myself I am traveling on a path to BETTER.
• I ask myself every day: "What did I do today to make myself a better person today than I was yesterday?”
• I’ve always had this theory that, if you help enough people get what they want, you’ll always get what you want.
• Information = Knowledge Knowledge = Wisdom Wisdom = Opportunity

On this episode, I'm thrilled to bring you a deep and engaging conversation with a true baseball legend, Clint Hurdle. Clint's career in baseball is nothing short of spectacular, and his journey is filled with invaluable insights and wisdom that transcend the sport. From being a highly touted young player to managing teams to the World Series, Clint's experiences are a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of relationships.

Clint and I have shared numerous conversations over the years, especially during spring training, where his "Hurdleisms"—gems of wisdom he naturally dispenses—became a hallmark. We dive into these Hurdleisms, exploring the wit and wisdom compiled in his new book, aptly titled "Hurdleisms: Wit and Wisdom from a Lifetime in Baseball."

In our conversation, Clint opens up about his journey from being a young kid with a dream to the pinnacle of professional baseball. We discuss the pressures of being labeled a phenom, the ups and downs of his playing career, and the transition to coaching and managing. Clint's story is not just about baseball; it's about life, perseverance, and overcoming personal challenges, including his battles with alcoholism.

But it doesn’t stop there. We talk about his approach to leadership, the importance of building a strong culture within a team, and how his faith and family have grounded him throughout his career. Clint shares candidly about his tenure with the Rockies, the joy of leading the Pittsburgh Pirates back to the playoffs after 20 consecutive losing seasons, and his current role in player development with the Rockies.

Whether you're a baseball fan or not, Clint Hurdle's story is one of genuine human interest and inspiration. Join us for a heartfelt and insightful episode where we explore the life of a man who, despite the myriad challenges, has always strived to be a beacon of positivity and guidance for those around him.

Don't miss this episode with the wise Clint Hurdle. You’re sure to walk away with a fresh perspective on leadership, life, and baseball!

About Clint,

Clint Hurdle is a former Major League Baseball outfielder and coach, most well-known for his time managing the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates. He led the Rockies to their first-ever National League pennant in 2007. After being hired by the Pirates in 2010, Hurdle guided them to their first winning season and playoff appearance in over two decades in 2013, when he was named the NL Manager of the Year. The Pirates also made the postseason in 2014 and 2015.

Hurdle was selected ninth overall in the 1975 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Rovals and played 515 games at the Major League level, including 109 starts for the AL pennant winners in 1980.

Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11

Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters.

Save your spot for Training Camp Live in Ponte Vedra, Florida, MAY 15th, 2025! Elevate your leadership skills and engage in an experience designed for growth, purpose, and excellence with incredible leaders such as Sean McVay, Eddie George, Dabo Swinney, Chaunte Lowe and Kevin O’Connell. Game-Changing Coaches, Once-in-a-Lifetime Insights!

Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here.

Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare