The Gill Athletics Track and Field Connections Podcast

🎙️ Dr. Jim Patchell: From Hurdler to Head Coach & PhD – The Arkansas State Story

📚🎓 From dissecting regression equations to mastering the hurdles, Dr. Jim Patchell’s journey is anything but conventional. As the head coach of Arkansas State University—and an alum himself—Dr. Patchell brings a powerful blend of academic insight, coaching wisdom, and personal authenticity to this episode.

👟 Tune in as we explore:

🧠 His PhD in kinesiology and how it shaped his coaching lens

📘 Buying the legendary Track & Field Omnibook at age 15 (!)

🏃 His early days as a competitive hurdler and sprinter

🏠 What it’s like to return and lead your alma mater

💡 Valuable insights on hiring, mentoring assistants, and building a winning culture

🎯 Why he never applied for a job (and yet landed incredible ones)

🎤 🚨 Mid-Episode Shoutout – TED Talks for Track & Field? YES PLEASE.

Ever wish there was a "TED Talk" version of coaching education? Look no further.

🧠 The Gill1918 Project is our new podcast series (dropping Tuesday through Sunday) delivering bite-sized, high-impact coaching wisdom from the best in the business. By coaches, for coaches!

This is the coaching education you wish you had—inspirational, tactical, and on your time. 🎧

Start listening now!

🎯 Quote of the Day:

“If I set a goal, I'm almost all in on it.” – Dr. Jim Patchell

Whether you’re a coach, student, or aspiring PhD, Dr. Patchell’s journey reminds us that education and passion can fuel remarkable leadership—on and off the track.

🌟 Explore Our Library: Dive into 300+ episodes featuring insights from coaching legends such as Boo Schexnayder and Dan Pfaff, Diljeet Taylor (BYU) and Beth Alford-Sullivan, as well as superstar coaches Petros Kyprianou (Illinois), Althea Thomas (Vanderbilt) and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure.

🎙️ Create Your Own Podcast Episode: Reach out to Mike Cunningham for instruction on how to create your very own Gill1918 Project episode, which airs every Tuesday through Sunday. Find YOUR voice on the Gill Connections Podcast Network.

📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍