In this episode, JD Gravina, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Western Illinois University, joins Tyson to share his inspiring journey from leaving a stable computer engineering career to pursue his passion for coaching. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of coaching at both high school and college levels, the importance of grit, resilience, and embracing failure, as well as the impact of personal loss and servant leadership. Listeners will gain insights into betting on oneself, building strong teams, the value of perseverance and empathy in both sports and life, and so much more.
Topics in this conversation include:
- JD’s Career Leap: From Computer Engineering to Coaching (0:26)
- Early Influences and Family Background (1:52)
- Realizing Coaching Was His Calling (3:44)
- Facing Doubts and Social Pressures After Career Change (5:22)
- Financial Sacrifices and Early Coaching Jobs (7:10)
- Lessons in Grit and Perseverance from Small Town Coaching (11:39)
- Transitioning from High School to College Coaching (16:27)
- Building Confidence and Overcoming Early Setbacks (19:12)
- Advice for Young People on Taking Risks (21:43)
- Leadership Philosophy and Servant Leadership (25:16)
- Teaching Grit and Resilience to Athletes (27:20)
- Handling Personal Challenges and Supporting Players (29:59)
- Impact of Personal Loss and Grief on Coaching (33:03)
- Building a Supportive Coaching Staff (38:22)
- The Role of Purpose in Coaching and Life (40:59)
- Raising a Family in a Coaching Environment (43:09)
- The Value of Failure and How to Discuss It with Players (47:41)
- Advice for Those Afraid to Leave the Safe Path (51:19)
- What “All Grit No Quit” Means to JD Gravina (54:27)
- Connecting with JD and Parting Thoughts (56:46)
All Grit, No Quit is the podcast for anyone who’s ever been knocked down and refused to stay there. Hosted by entrepreneur and comeback coach Tyson Lawrence, each episode features real, unfiltered conversations with people who’ve battled adversity and came out stronger. From personal loss to professional failure, these are the stories of grit, resilience, and relentless determination. If you’re facing a fight of your own or just need a reminder that you’re built for more—this show is for you. Subscribe now at AllGritNoQuitPodcast.com and join the movement.
