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Gird Up! Podcast

1044 - Bill Kahle | Wrestling Coach, Budding Evangelist

Summary


In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Bill Kahle, a passionate coach and evangelist. They discuss the importance of mentorship in coaching, the struggles with addiction, and the connection between high achievers and substance abuse. Bill shares his journey of balancing faith, family, and coaching, emphasizing the need for open conversations in parenting and the role of the church in personal growth. The conversation also explores different wrestling styles, the growth of Greco-Roman wrestling in America, and the significance of setting high expectations for young athletes. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Bill Kahle discuss the multifaceted impact of education, international experiences, and wrestling on youth development. They explore how challenges in education can shape character, the importance of international exposure in broadening perspectives, and the role of wrestling in instilling resilience and work ethic. The discussion also delves into the significance of faith and spirituality in athletic pursuits, emphasizing how these elements contribute to personal growth and leadership in family dynamics.


Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Support for Gird Up Podcast

04:41 The Role of Faith in Coaching

09:29 The Pressure of High Achievers and Escapism

14:05 Balancing Family, Faith, and Sports

19:00 Parenting and Hard Conversations

23:40 The Importance of Vocalizing Struggles

28:03 Understanding the Church's Role in Community

33:17 Coaching and Mentorship in Wrestling

39:40 The Value of Dreaming Big

41:54 Navigating Coaching and Family Life

44:41 Experiences in International Wrestling

48:34 Navigating Challenges in Education

51:42 The Impact of International Experiences on Youth

56:26 The Importance of Hard Work and Masculinity

01:00:51 Passion and Purpose in Life

01:05:08 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth

01:09:41 Faith and Personal Development in Sports

01:11:47 The Power of Forgiveness and Redemption

01:12:37 David vs. Goliath: Courage and Preparation

01:13:45 Confidence in Skills and Faith

01:14:23 Spirituality in Sports and Life's Battles

01:15:39 Youth and the Search for Purpose

01:16:43 Spiritual Warfare and Inner Battles

01:17:05 Legacy of Greatness: David's Ancestry

01:18:59 The Role of Mentorship in Growth

01:20:23 Building Community and Leadership

01:21:38 The Importance of Male Role Models

01:22:32 Everyday Leadership and Responsibility

01:24:07 The Balance of Strength and Meekness

01:25:27 Modeling Behavior and Influence

01:27:21 The Complexity of Language and Communication

01:29:23 Strength in Control and Discipline


Bill's Links:

https://www.instagram.com/billkahle?igsh=Yzd1NWxsdzFpd2d6&utm_source=qr

https://www.instagram.com/payton_jacobson34?igsh=NDN0anZkbjB0cDJh


Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

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