Coach Mike shares the story behind his essay Thumos: The Fire That Fuels Great Athletes — an ancient Greek idea that explains the spirit driving courage, pride, and perseverance.

You’ll hear how that fire was tested when his son, Nick, suffered a serious shoulder injury during his senior football season — and how the long road to recovery reignited his thumos.

This conversation goes beyond the weight room.

It’s about parenting, patience, and the moments that forge character.

Because muscles heal, but spirit — thumos — is what keeps us moving forward.

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