Jim wrote this book directly after his time as head coach at The Ohio State University. It captures his philosophy as an educator and coach. The read should come away understanding our greatest successes come from what our athletes do off the field.

“Finish Strong” by Nate Ebner is an inspiring memoir that chronicles his journey from a walk-on at Ohio State to becoming a Super Bowl champion and Olympic rugby player. Ebner’s story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and hard work. Jim coached Nate at Ohio State and was featured on the podcast for episode 5.

“Uncommon” by Tony Dungy offers a blueprint for leading a life of significance. Dungy shares personal stories and lessons on integrity, faith, and perseverance. This book is a heartfelt guide for those seeking to make a positive impact on their families, teams, and communities.

In “Good to Great,” Jim Collins examines why some companies make the leap to greatness while others do not. Collins identifies key principles and behaviors that drive sustained success. This book is a must-read for business leaders aiming to transform their organizations.

“The Traveler’s Gift” by Andy Andrews is a unique blend of self-help and fictional narrative. The story follows David Ponder as he journeys through time, meeting historical figures who impart seven critical decisions for success. This book is both inspirational and practical, offering timeless wisdom for personal growth.

“If It Ain’t Broke… Break It!” challenges the conventional wisdom of maintaining the status quo. Robert J. Kriegel and Louis Patler encourage readers to embrace change and innovate continuously. This book is a thought-provoking read for anyone looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world.

John Wooden, one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time, shares his timeless wisdom in “Wooden.” This book is a collection of life lessons and philosophies that go beyond sports, offering guidance on leadership, integrity, and character. Wooden’s reflections are invaluable for anyone aspiring to lead a meaningful and impactful life.

“Showtime” by Pat Riley provides an insider’s look at the strategies and philosophies that drove the success of the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1980s. Riley discusses the importance of discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness in achieving greatness. This book is a must-read for sports enthusiasts and leaders alike.

Joe Torre shares his principles for success in “Ground Rules for Winners.” Drawing from his experiences as a championship-winning baseball manager with the Yankees, Torre provides insights on leadership, teamwork, and resilience. This book is a compelling read for those seeking to lead teams to victory both on and off the field.

“Seize the Day” by Danny Cox is a motivational guide to achieving extraordinary results in everyday life. Cox provides actionable strategies to overcome procrastination and take decisive action. This book is perfect for those seeking to maximize their potential and make the most of each day.

“The Fifth Discipline” by Peter M. Senge introduces the concept of the learning organization, where continuous improvement and adaptability are key. Senge outlines the five disciplines necessary for building such organizations, emphasizing systems thinking. This book is essential for leaders looking to foster innovation and long-term success in their teams.

“See You at the Top” by Zig Ziglar is a motivational classic that has inspired millions to reach their full potential. Ziglar provides timeless advice on personal development, emphasizing the importance of a positive attitude, goal setting, and self-discipline. Through engaging anecdotes and practical tips, this book encourages readers to overcome obstacles and pursue excellence.

“Over the Top” by Zig Ziglar offers an enthusiastic guide to achieving success and personal fulfillment. Ziglar’s motivational wisdom helps readers overcome obstacles and adopt a winning attitude. This book is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their life to the next level with positivity and perseverance.

In “Talent Is Never Enough,” John C. Maxwell argues that while talent is essential, it alone is insufficient for success. He explores the critical choices and actions that maximize one’s talent, turning potential into high performance. John was inspired by a list of items the 2000 Buckeyes put together that did not require talent and wrote this book.

In “Winning With People,” John C. Maxwell explores the essential relationships that contribute to personal and professional success. Maxwell offers practical advice on building and maintaining positive connections with others. This book is an essential guide for anyone looking to enhance their interpersonal skills and build a supportive network.

“Today Matters” emphasizes the importance of making every day count. John C. Maxwell outlines 12 daily practices that can guarantee tomorrow’s success by focusing on today. This book provides practical steps to transform your everyday actions into a powerful trajectory for future achievement.

“The 360° Leader” by John C. Maxwell breaks down the myth that you must be at the top to lead effectively. Maxwell teaches that you can lead from anywhere in the organization by influencing those above, beside, and below you. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to maximize their leadership potential regardless of their position.

In “Leadership Gold,” John C. Maxwell shares 26 nuggets of wisdom accumulated over his lifetime of leadership. Each chapter presents a valuable lesson, coupled with practical advice to apply these insights in your own leadership journey. This book is a treasure trove for anyone looking to refine their leadership skills and make a lasting impact.