Podcast Short: Building a Sticky Program in the Transfer Portal Era

In this episode of Beyond Coaching, Rob and Dustin respond to a question from a college coach about recruiting and retaining athletes in the era of the transfer portal. Drawing from the Impactful Coaching Project’s core philosophy of building a “sticky” program culture, they explore how the same environment that attracts transfers is also what helps retain freshmen—and why clarity, consistency, and care still matter most.

What We Cover:

• Why transfers and freshmen should experience the same program values
• How to build a “sticky” program culture that athletes want to join—and stay in
• The role of visual leadership and real-life stories in attracting the right fits
• Why “culture clarity” beats transactional recruiting
• How to empower your current athletes as your best recruiters
• Ways coaches can demonstrate authentic care that resonates with families

Key Quote:

"This is who we are. Take it or leave it. But if you’re here, there’s a standard—and you’re going to be cared for."

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Coaching and Leading the 21st Century Athlete and Athletic Department Leadership and Developing Coaches are available now on Amazon.

These books dive deeper into the principles discussed on the podcast and are must-reads for coaches, athletic directors, and leaders who want to grow themselves and their teams.

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For more resources on coaching the whole person, visit impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com