Ep24: Coach Trevor Large Canisius University — Building a Culture That Wins

What does it really take to build a winning culture — one where people feel seen, valued, and accountable? In this episode, John Richmond sits down with Trevor Large, Head Coach of the Canisius Men’s Division I Hockey Team, to talk about leadership, accountability, and what it means to create a culture that lasts. Trevor shares how coaching is a calling, not a career, and why relationships and communication matter more than tactics.

They explore how great leaders are forged through challenges, the importance of clarity (“to be unclear is to be unkind”), and how Buffalo’s underdog spirit shows up both on and off the ice. Whether you’re a coach, a business leader, or someone looking to build a strong team culture, this conversation will leave you with lessons that stick long after the final whistle.

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Chapters:
00:00 — The Passion for Hockey
04:31 — Life Lessons from the Ice
07:09 — Developing Young Men Beyond Hockey
10:31 — The Importance of Culture in Sports
13:31 — Recruiting for Culture Fit
16:15 — Leadership Challenges in Coaching
19:26 — Feedback and Communication Styles
22:23 — Learning from Early Leadership Mistakes
32:20 — The Importance of Human Connection
34:44 — Building Relationships in Leadership
37:23 — Understanding Team Dynamics
40:42 — Navigating Challenges with Empathy
43:03 — The Underdog Mentality in Sports
51:53 — Following Your Passion and Life Changes