The moment Coach Spencer Danielson walks into a room, his energy is palpable. Fresh off leading Boise State to the inaugural football playoffs, Danielson radiates the same intensity that has quickly made him one of college football's most inspiring leaders. What truly stands out, though, isn't just his tactical knowledge or competitive fire – it's his unwavering commitment to developing young men beyond the boundaries of the football field.

"I truly believe I get judged on what happens 12 nights a year, but what I really am going to be judged by is how these young men are 20 years from now," Danielson shares with remarkable clarity. In an era where collegiate athletics increasingly resembles a business transaction, his philosophy represents a refreshing counterbalance. While acknowledging the realities of NIL deals and the transfer portal, he's deliberately steering Boise State in a different direction: "Where maybe other people are going more transactional, we're focused on transformation."

This approach is embodied perfectly in star running back Ashton Jentry, who chose to stay at Boise State despite numerous opportunities to leave. "When your best players are your hardest workers, you always have a shot," Danielson explains, describing how Jentry would take 36 carries on Saturday, then practice harder than anyone else on Tuesday. It's this work ethic, combined with character development, that forms the cornerstone of Danielson's "Build Different" philosophy – doing common things in uncommonly excellent ways.

Throughout our conversation, Danielson speaks openly about his faith as his foundation, while emphasizing his program welcomes players of all beliefs. He balances his coaching responsibilities with family life, including three young children, through a disciplined morning routine centered on gratitude. And despite his rising star in coaching circles, his humility shines through as he expresses deep appreciation for Bronco Nation's passionate support.

Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply appreciate authentic leadership, Coach Danielson's perspective offers valuable wisdom: chase value over currency, embrace your authentic self, and remember that developing people always matters more than developing players.

Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/

TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev

X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev

Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE