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Nicole Jones, the new head coach of Nebraska women’s gymnastics, joins Ryan Teubner and Wes Becknell to talk about her path from Michigan gymnast to collegiate coach—and the leap from a longtime career at Michigan State to building a program in Lincoln.Jones reflects on the relationships that have shaped her coaching, what she looks for in recruits, and how her staff is setting high standards while helping athletes enjoy their experience. She also discusses leading through change, earning athletes’ trust, and why student-athletes should make use of the support and resources around them.The conversation touches on the demands of gymnastics, balancing training with the chance to be a kid, multi-sport participation, and the growing role of NIL in recruiting. Jones shares what she hopes Nebraska gymnastics will be known for: a welcoming community, genuine connection, and athletes who look back on their time with joy and pride.

Topics covered

• Jones’s journey through gymnastics and coaching at Michigan State
• Building Nebraska’s staff and recruiting for fit, potential, and growth
• Setting expectations with transparency, trust, and step-by-step progress
• Supporting athletes’ physical and mental well-being
• The demands of gymnastics and the value of a welcoming team culture
• Jones’s hopes for her first season and the program’s lasting legacy

In this conversation, Mark Branch shares insights about his wrestling career, personal growth, hidden talents, and travel experiences. He reflects on the myths surrounding his height, his skills in construction and tinkering, and some of the less favorable places he's visited during his wrestling journey.

• Mark Branch humorously discusses the myths about his height.
• He feels short compared to his son who is six six.
• Mark enjoys construction and tinkering as hobbies.
• He reflects on his childhood experiences with musical instruments.
• Traveling for wrestling has taken him to places he doesn't enjoy.
• He shares a memorable experience in New York City during NCAs.
• Mark's perspective on travel is shaped by his wrestling career.
• He values the mental escape that hobbies provide.
• Mark's childhood involved a lot of tinkering with electronics.
• He has a light-hearted approach to discussing his experiences.

In this episode, Coach Brett Wargo shares his journey from a gymnast to a top-tier college coach, emphasizing the importance of culture, relationships, and continuous growth in coaching. Discover insights on building a positive gymnastics environment, motivating athletes, and the value of perseverance and self-awareness.

key topics

Brett Wargo's background and journey in gymnastics

The importance of culture and relationships in coaching

Strategies for motivating athletes through plateaus and setbacks

The role of self-awareness and continuous improvement in coaching

Building a positive team environment and culture

Balancing individual needs with team goals

The impact of mental toughness and mindset in sports

Recruitment and transitioning athletes to college programs

The significance of community and support in athlete development

Brett Wargo's coaching philosophy and future goals

sound bites

"It's about people, not just the sport"

"Create a culture where everyone wants to be"

"High energy and cheering fuel success"